A year ago I was blindsided by a false allegation of sexual abuse. Not only was I ill-equipped to handle the physical, mental, and emotional toll of such a heinous allegation, but I was equally ignorant as to the severe penalties and consequences should I be found guilty. I found out very quickly t...hat when charges such as these are levied against a defendant, the presumption of innocense, upon which our justice system is founded, is placed firmly on its ear. Law enforcement, social services, prosecutors, even judges and juries, are quickly caught up in the hysteria such charges ellicit.
In short, it is disparaging enough to suffer the betrayal of people bent on lying about you, but when the system itself seems to support such falsehoods, and begins to work against you in a manner completely contrary to the judicial beliefs we hold sacred, the frightened helplessness one can experience can quickly become overwhelming.
From the moment I retained Mr. Cramm, he exuded a confidence and calm that belied his knowledge and expertise. While each case and client carries with it its own set of variables, I am indebted to Mr. Cramm for his personal attention and efforts to assuage my emotional distress. With his help I was able to formulate an understanding of my plight and to recognize and accept the steps necessary to work proactively toward the desired resolution. There are obviously no guarantees in criminal court, and while I was well aware that no promises could ever be granted, Mr. Cramm was always realistic and reassuring without being blunt and pessimistic about our chances.
The stakes were very high in my case, and Paul welcomed and encouraged my input and desires. It was always made clear that he would share all possible paradigms with me, but that ultimately, the manner in which we proceeded at each point was my decision alone. He was available at all times for my questions and feedback, and his remark that I could call at any time, was an honest statement he truly lived by.
As a defendant, one hires an attorney for their knowledge of the law, and Mr. Cramm's knowledge is extensive. His understanding of the machinations required to operate within our court system is nothing short of comprehensive. Additionally, throughout the year it took my case to go to trial, he never once took action based on how things 'normally' progress with a case like mine. Instead, he always viewed my case subjectively and uniquely, constantly examining it from every perspective; weighing the pros and cons of all potential approaches at every juncture, and only after my input, making the decision on how to proceed.
In all legal matters, the 'letter of the law' is tantamount, and all of Mr. Cramm's filings on my behalf were thorough, timely, and expertly completed. It's not the types of motions that CAN be filed, but the ones that SHOULD be filed, which are pivotal to a successful strategy by including or excluding testimony, evidence, etc. In this respect, my case was no different, and Paul was equal to the task at every hearing.
Since my case carried such a severe sentence, and because I knew myself to be innocent of the charges, from the very start I was adamant that I would take this matter to trial. I discussed this with Paul on more than one occasion, and he never shied away from the tremendous undertaking at hand. And it was there, in the courtroom, where Mr. Cramm's abilities truly shone!
From jury voir dire and selection, to direct and cross examination, to timely objections and closing argument...regardless of the outcome, there was not a single moment in the courtroom where my family, my friends, nor myself ever felt that Paul hadn't done anything and everything to defend me aggressively and professionally under the law.
Though it seemed like forever, in short order the jury unanimously returned a 'not guilty' verdict! For me, Paul Cramm's excellence can never be overstated! I owe him my freedom!