About Hugh Duvall

Hugh Duvall emphasizes working collaboratively with each client. At the heart of this process is the goal of empowering the client to make informed decisions that are the correct decisions for that client. The initial phase of this process generally involves three stages:

First, obtaining discovery from the prosecutor: This discovery usually consists of at least one police report but may include various other materials such as photographs or audio tapes;

Second, review this material with the client to identify possible inaccuracies and consider whether investigation or research might correct such inaccuracies.

Third, reviewing all discovery and products of investigation in light of existing statutory and appellate law to consider whether the case should proceed to trial or whether a negotiated settlement (plea bargain) should be considered.

This initial phase might be accomplished in a few days or might take weeks. Under certain circumstances, an alternative course of action might be needed (for example, where the client is currently the target of an investigation but has not yet been charged). However the case proceeds, the goal remains the same: To assist the client in making decisions that are right for that individual.