Your attorney should get to know you at the very beginning of the case and make time to learn about your background and the circumstances that led to your arrest. This will give them the ammunition to negotiate the best resolution for your individual circumstances.
Even if you never intend to plead guilty, your lawyer will explain all your options. You should have the power to decide how your case moves forward. More options mean better personal outcomes in all circumstances.
As you prepare for trial, your lawyer will review the discovery with you and discuss the investigation, witnesses, and strategy. They will advise you every step of the way, but you will ultimately decide whether to:
Plead guilty or have a trial
Have a non-jury or jury trial
Testify on your own behalf
If you chose to testify on your own behalf, your lawyer should help you practice your testimony and work to put you at ease so that you can connect with the jurors and allow them to imagine your experience in their minds.