1972, October, Pg. 20. cle in colorado. inc.

• Author: by Robert T. Booms

1 Colo.Law. 20

Colorado Lawyer

1972.

1972, October, Pg. 20.

cle in colorado. inc

20Vol. 1, No. 12, Pg. 20cle in colorado. inc.In accordance with last month's promise, CLE begins what we hope will be a regular feature of The Colorado Lawyer. We invite your comments and suggestions for topics and authors.This month's column was written by Robert Tabor Booms, Denver, who is engaged in private practice. He is a former assistant dean of the University of Denver College of Law.by Robert T. BoomsClient in Jail?

Here are some suggestions for the attorney who receives a phone call from a client in jail. It is not an exhaustive list and is subject to variations according to local practice and custom. These are, at minimum, the bare essentials.

1. Ask your client where he is. Which jail? Will he be transferred to another jail shortly? Does he require or is he receiving medical attention? Does he want you to notify his family or friends? Should you contact his employer to explain his absence? Does he require any personal articles?

2. Ask him what charges are pending against him. Has a date been set for him to be brought before a judge? Has bond been set? Are there any relatives or friends who can pay the premium for a bail bond, pay for the posting of a cash bond, or arrange for a property bond? Where can these relatives or friends be reached? (Note: It is far preferable to secure your client's release at the earliest possible time. This eliminates the need for a visit to the jail. Your initial interview with the client is likely to be much more productive if it can take place in your office. However, if your client is very upset and needs reassurance, do not hesitate to call on him at the jail at once.)

3. Avoid getting into a lengthy discussion about the case on the telephone. Advise your client to comply with

   reasonable orders of police officers and jail officials but tell him also to reveal nothing, sign nothing, and discuss the case with no one (including relatives, friends, and fellow inmates). Have him object to participating in any line-ups, physical examinations and lie-detector tests. Always be ready to advise a client who calls to ask you whether he should take a breathalyzer test.4. Contact any relatives or friends concerning funds for bailing out your client. Explain the bonding procedure to them (see paragraph...