When you have been arrested for a criminal offense, you have no choice but to find a lawyer to represent you in court. However, finding criminal defense attorneys is difficult. Here are some things to keep in mind.
1. Choose a specific attorney. Almost no lawyer will cover a wide range of cases. They usually focus on a certain field. Some focus on tax cases, while others handle only civil cases. Others deal with domestic crimes. So look for one who has represented clients with cases similar to yours.
2. Experienced attorneys are preferred. A reputable federal defense attorney has sufficient knowledge, which is to his advantage. But his services would cost much more than the services of a new lawyer. Those who cannot afford private legal representatives may opt for public defenders. The court can provide you with a public attorney, but your time and effort may be lacking for the case, since you may have other clients as well.
3. Look for lawyers from well-known organizations. Groups like the NACDL (National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers) have a list of attorneys with substantial experience handling criminal cases. They are your best bets.
4. Check out law firms. You may be calling your friends for recommendations, but you may just be in dismay. Instead, you can search for criminal law firms, which can provide you with the proper legal advice.
5. Don’t hesitate to ask questions. What kinds of questions should you ask? You can start by asking who will handle your case. Will you handle the case yourself or send an assistant attorney to handle it for you? Also, don’t be afraid to ask about the number of cases you have won. Good lawyers will not hesitate to point you to the correct figures.
6. Trust lawyers who say what they can do with your case. If your filing is charges and fees, head out the door and find another criminal defense attorney. Good lawyers provide free advice.
7. Ask about the collection schemes. Lawyers have different ways of charging for their services. Some charge fixed payments, while others charge by the hour. At the same time, many lawyers also pass paperwork costs on to you. Make sure payment schemes are clear from the start.
8. There is no best lawyer in town. Lawyers should not call themselves the best. Some may have won all their cases, but that does not mean they are the best for you. The most reliable way to tell if a lawyer is good enough for you is to meet him or her first. Interview him and ask him questions, then see if you feel comfortable with him.
9. Check your attorney’s background. Speak to train the lawyer’s clients and ask them how their lawyer treated them and their cases. There is nothing more compelling than testimonials from real people. You can also look up the lawyer’s name online and read comments about him there.
Keep in mind that a defense attorney will not necessarily ask the court to acquit you of all charges. If the evidence is strong, the lawyer can ask the court to lower the charges against you. In many cases, evidence can be challenged, and that is why criminal court cases can take so long.
