Noted Case
Mother cleared of charges she duct taped foster kids
November 2003
DOYLESTOWN (AP) A woman accused of wrapping her foster children in duct tape was acquitted Monday night.
The defense lawyer for Colleen Broe, 34, of Levittown, said he would now try to get the foster children back into his client's care. "I believe in this woman from the bottom of my heart," attorney Andrew Schneider said. "A woman (who) did nothing but show love and compassion for these foster children and just got it right in the neck for doing this."
Further Reading
Do's and Don'ts of Selecting a Lawyer
- Do expect and demand a simple explanation of the crime you’re charged with and the Court procedures that will happen. I’m amazed when I explain this to people who’ve consulted other lawyers, and they say, “No one told me this.”
- Don’t rely on lawyers who try to impress you that they “know” judges, prosecutors and police, hinting they have an “in.” These public servants are sworn to make impartial decisions, and not make give “favors” to lawyers they like or know. From years of practice, I as well as any criminal defense lawyer know judges, prosecutors and police. It’s important to develop a professional, cordial relationship with them, a relationship that tells them you’re a honest and competent. Those character traits speak volumes.
- Do expect a written fee agreement, telling you just what you’re lawyer will do and for how much. This can be an actual agreement or a fee letter.
- Don’t tolerate a lawyer who will not return phone calls. I make it a practice to return my calls as soon as possible. You have a right to know what’s going on with your case in a reasonable time.
- Do ask your lawyer his or her experience in handling certain cases and have them go into details; rather than giving a simple, “Oh, I’ve handles dozens of these cases.” It’s been my experience that some lawyers shy away from cases of violence, sex or children, and only take them on reluctantly, because they need the business.
- Don’t expect guarantees of success, but do expect a promise from a lawyer to use his best efforts. No one can guarantee an outcome. If a lawyer makes this guarantee, think twice before hiring him.
- Do feel you can tell your attorney anything that happened and it will be kept confidential – secret.
If you have been arrested or charged with a criminal offense, you need a good lawyer. At the Law Offices of Andrew F. Schneider, all matters involving your freedom and good name are taken very seriously. We provide experienced, effective criminal defense.