Are you facing criminal charges? It’s important to contact criminal defense attorneys in your area right away. The sooner you hire a lawyer, the sooner you can build your defense.
There are now over 61,100 criminal lawyers and attorneys in the US. If you want to find the best criminal defense lawyer in town, it helps to have a plan. Otherwise, you might face time in jail.
Here are six questions you should ask a criminal defense attorney before hiring them. With these tips, you can narrow down your options.
Then, you can start building your defense with peace of mind that the best possible lawyer is on your case.
Start your search for a criminal defense attorney by asking these six questions today. You can also read more at our website.
1. How Long Have You Practiced Criminal Law?
First, it’s important to find an experienced criminal defense attorney. Otherwise, they might lack the specific expertise you need. As you start searching for a lawyer, head online. Visit your local bar association website. Check the Martindale-Hubbel directory, too. You can also Google “best criminal defense attorney near me.”
Start making a list of criminal defense attorneys. While you’re online, look into each lawyer’s history. Determine:
- How long they’ve practiced law
- What their specialty is
- How long they’ve specialized
- How long they’ve worked locally
Some laws and procedures can differ based on your location. Make sure the lawyer you choose has experience practicing in the area. They might have connections in town that could benefit your case, too.
It’s important to find a lawyer who has experience in the area of law that’s relevant to your case. For example, some lawyers focus on federal defense matters. Others work with clients who were accused of drug crimes.
A criminal defense lawyer who specializes in your type of case will understand the laws and procedures involved. They’ll have an easier time building your defense, too. Ask how many cases they’ve handled like yours over the past year. Then, ask about the outcome for those cases. Make sure they’ve handled multiple relevant cases.
You’ll have peace of mind knowing the criminal defense attorneys on your list have the experience you need.
2. How Often Do Your Cases Go To Trial?
Only 2% of federal criminal defendants go to trial. Most that do (83%) are found guilty. The remaining 17% are acquitted. About 90% plead guilty while 8% have their cases dismissed.
Before choosing a criminal defense lawyer, make sure they have plenty of courtroom experience, too. They’ll know how to handle themselves in front of a judge and jury. They likely have a strategy in mind for taking your case to trial, too.
Some lawyers are apprehensive about going to court. In fact, they might accept a plea deal to avoid it. Before choosing a criminal defense litigator, make sure they’re confident. Pay attention to how they speak and hold themselves. If they don’t have experience taking their cases to trial, look elsewhere.
You can’t anticipate what will happen with your case. You’ll feel reassured knowing your lawyer can handle themselves if your case does go to trial.
3. How Often Will We Communicate?
If you want to build a strong defense, it’s important to find a lawyer who will communicate with you. Ask the lawyer how often you’ll speak. Determine how you’ll communicate as well.
For example, they might call you regularly with updates. Maybe they’ll send emails instead. Some lawyers will have a paralegal contact you with updates.
Make sure you have a plan to communicate. Otherwise, you might not know what’s happening with your case.
Make sure to ask who else will work on your case, too. For example, your lawyer might work with assistant clerks, paralegals, secretaries, and other lawyers. Ask if you can meet the members of the lawyer’s team.
Before choosing a lawyer, ask about their current workload as well. If they’re swamped, they might hand off your case to someone else. Make sure you find a lawyer who has time to dedicate their attention to your case. Otherwise, a junior lawyer might take over.
4. What Strategy Will You Use for My Case?
Schedule a consultation appointment with a few criminal defense attorneys on your list. During your appointment, discuss the specifics of your case. Bring any relevant documents, too.
Then, ask your lawyer what strategy they would use to argue your case.
Choose a lawyer with an analytical and creative mindset. They’ll have an easier time building your defense.
5. What Are the Possible Outcomes for My Case?
Ask the lawyer what outcomes they expect for your case, too. In some cases, the prosecution might drop the charges. In other instances, your defense attorney will work out a plea deal. Otherwise, your case will go to trial.
Make sure your lawyer is honest and transparent about the potential outcomes of your case. They shouldn’t make any guarantees. Instead, choose someone who remains honest with you every step of the way.
6. How Much Will This Cost?
Before choosing a criminal defense litigator, take the time to gather pricing from more than one lawyer. Determine what’s included in their pricing. Consider how they calculate their expenses, too. The cost of a strong defense can vary based on the lawyer’s experience and history.
Talking to your lawyer about potential expenses will help you prepare ahead of time. You don’t want to feel surprised when you receive the bill after the fact. Consider their fee structure, too. Some lawyers quote flat fees for their services. Others use an hourly rate. Make sure to maintain realistic expectations before you hire an attorney.
State Your Case: 6 Questions to Ask Criminal Defense Attorneys Before Hiring Them
Finding the best criminal defense attorneys in town doesn’t have to feel like a hassle. Instead, start by searching, “criminal defense attorney near me.” Then, ask these six questions to vet your options. With these questions, you can find the best criminal defense lawyer with your goals and needs in mind.
Need help fighting criminal charges? We’re here for you. Our team has experience on both sides of the courtroom. Contact us today to get started.
