For your criminal lawyer to help you get the best outcome, you need to be honest with your lawyer. You should be available when your lawyer needs you and you should understand the evidence against you and any possible defenses to your case so you can make an informed decision about how to proceed. If applicable, you should follow the advice of your lawyer including getting treatment for drugs, alcohol, other addictions, or mental health.   The best criminal lawyers take your case seriously and personally and will work very hard to achieve the best outcome for you based on the law and the specific facts and circumstances of your case.