Raushanah Fadqua Rodgers | Raleigh Criminal Lawyer

• United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina
• Middle District of North Carolina
• The United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims
• Department of Veterans Affairs

I was hired to represent a person that was charged with 2nd degree sexual assault charges and conspiracy. My client faced a 179 month prison sentence if convicted. The case had strengths and weaknesses, a weakness was that there was a co-defendant that was vocal and agreed to testify against my client's interest. The strengths....well there were many BUT client and I knew that trial was a risk. We were able to negotiate a 31 month sentence and avoid the 179 month sentence possibility----altogether.

I built a successful practice by being attentive to my clients needs and advocating for my client in and out of the courtroom. My practice was built, one client at a time, one case at a time. Satisfied clients of course review you and share the good word with family and friends who find themselves in need of a good lawyer.

A client should look for honesty in a lawyer. Picking a lawyer is like picking a mechanic, honesty allows for trust to develop in a relationship that is only effective if the client trusts the lawyer. Once the client identifies lawyers that they believe are honest, then the other characteristics that are equally important are: confidence, fearlessness, hardworking, knowledgeable and familiarity with the court where the client's case is pending.

Local knowledge is important to the success of a case. When an attorney is familiar with the local components where a matter is pending--the client has the leg up. An attorney may be aware that Judge A is not the best judge to try a particular case before or may know that a particular police officer is dishonest or a very credible witness. Local knowledge may alter the way that an attorney prepares and or presents his or her case. In just the same way, local knowledge may cause an attorney to miss the mark completely with a particular case. It's important for an attorney to get current on local practices and norms so that the matter/ representation goes according to plan.

In a free consultation, I discuss the legal matter, it's components, applicable law and likely outcomes. I make the prospective client aware of how my services can be of assistance to him or her. I also answer questions the prospective client may have.

During a free phone consultation (which I give on criminal matters only but not DWI's) I will require a persons, name, email address and phone number. The person will share information regarding their legal situation, pending court date, charges if applicable or the nature of the hearing and a brief summary of the facts. I usually have questions for clarity. I provide the client with information to help him or her better understand their legal situation, we discuss my availability, a prospective plan and legal fees.

I'm different from other attorneys because when I'm hired, I'm prepared to pursue my client's goals by any legal means necessary. I'm honest, so when a client puts money on the table and desires to hire me to pursue unreasonable goals--I leave the money on the table. I discuss what is realistic before I'm hired and I'm accessible via telephone, email and text to answer questions my client's may have during office hours and thereafter. I'm hardworking, well-read, and I'm vested in all the cases I undertake.

The most rewarding aspect of my job is a thoroughly satisfied client.

My interests other than law are traveling, reading, and watching documentaries.

I am involved in the community. I routinely volunteer to judge mock trials of law students who travel to the area for competitions. I also do pro bono legal work and represent domestic violence victims.