Most of us never plan on ending up in a courtroom, much less being there as a defendant. Then, there’s also the danger of being wrongfully convicted.
If you do end up accused of a crime, you’re going to need to enlist the services of a solid criminal defense lawyer, and there are certain attributes you need to look for.
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s take a look at everything you need to know.
Consultations Should Be Free
While not every lawyer will offer a free consultation, it’s important to find one who does when searching for a criminal attorney.
You’ll likely have an extensive list of questions about your case, and having to pay for a consultation can only add to the stress you’re already experiencing.
Being able to sit down and talk to your prospective attorney without worrying about the clock ticking will also help you keep your thoughts clear. If your budget is tight, it will also allow you to save as much money as possible.
How Much Industry Experience Do They Have?
While there’s no saying that someone who hasn’t worked as an attorney for over a decade couldn’t handle your case properly, they likely won’t be able to provide you with the same service that a veteran of the industry can.
Since hiring a lawyer with plenty of experience can mean the difference between a criminal conviction, it’s imperative to go with the best one you can find. Somewhere around 5-10 years of experience is a good place to start during your search for your attorney.
Do They Specialize in Your Type of Case?
Criminal law has many different areas of concentration, and the attorney you’re considering may not specialize in a relevant area.
For example, if you’ve been falsely accused of a hit and run but your potential lawyer specializes in dealing with different types of assault, they may not be the best option for you.
Are They Accessible?
You’ll need to be comfortable with the lawyer you’re working with in order for them to handle your case appropriately. It also shouldn’t be difficult to reach them when you need to.
It’s not realistic to expect a lawyer to answers your emails/texts after their working hours, and many attorneys charge for this service. But, finding one who doesn’t mind answering simple questions for free and also replies after business hours can be a benefit you can’t pass up.
Finding The Right Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Seem Difficult
But it doesn’t have to be.
With the above information about finding a criminal defense lawyer in mind, you’ll be well on your way to ensuring you find the one right for you.
Want to learn more about how we can help? Feel free to get in touch with us today to see what we can do.