Having an experienced, professional criminal defense attorney represent you is essential when facing criminal charges. Choosing the right attorney can be the difference between going to jail, or walking free, so taking a chance on just any attorney is not an option. Having the best defense attorney representing you can ensure that the courts see you in the best light possible.
And although the search for a lawyer can seem like an overwhelming task, it is one of the most important things you can do. Therefore, knowing what to look for is essential when you begin your search. We will give you tips you should keep in mind when hiring a criminal defense attorney.
#1. The Attorney Should Be Responsive
One of the first things you need to find out about a criminal defense attorney before hiring them is how responsive they are. A good attorney should respond to you quickly and, if needed, arrange a meeting with you within a day after you contact them.
You should know how long the attorney will take to return phone calls. Their responsiveness will show how committed they are to representing you and how much you can rely on them.
#2. Check Their Experience
When hiring a criminal defense attorney, experience and case success rate are crucial things to look for. When you are interviewing criminal defense attorneys, inquire about their experience in the criminal justice system and find out if they’ve won cases similar to yours in the past.
#3. Make Sure They Specialize in Criminal Law
Attorneys often practice general law, so you need to make sure the attorney you hire specializes in criminal law. If you don’t see anything on their website or background about criminal law, you should continue your search. It’s essential to hire an attorney who stays updated on criminal law and the best possible defenses.
#4. Choose a Local Attorney
You should also look for an attorney who has experience in the local courts. Each court has different processes and guidelines, and having an attorney familiar with this is vital. Also, a local attorney will have connections and relationships that can help your case when fighting a criminal charge.
#5. Check References and Reviews
Always ask an attorney for references before you hire them. The attorney should be able to provide at least three references from clients whose cases are comparable to yours. And after you get those references, make sure to call them and ask them what it was like working with the attorney.
The internet is a great place to learn about how attorneys interact with their clients. It’s important to use reputable sites such as Yelp, Better Business Bureau, and Google Review.
#6. Get Referrals
Asking family and friends for referrals is a great way to find a good criminal defense attorney. Another great resource is an attorney that handles other matters for you. They will likely be able to refer you to someone you can trust to handle your case.
#7. They Should Be Upfront About Their Fees
A trustworthy attorney doesn’t try to confuse you about their bill. Instead, they will explain their billing structure upfront and make sure that you understand it. In addition, they should give you an idea of what you will be charged, giving you a total cost for your defense.
Choosing the least expensive attorney isn’t always the best option. New lawyers tend to charge the lowest fees, but with that comes inexperience. So instead of focusing on the final cost, look for attorneys who provide the most services for their fees.
#8. They Should Have Confidence in the Courtroom
Courtroom experience is essential when you are looking for a criminal defense attorney. Things move very quickly in the courtroom, so often, an attorney has only seconds to make an objection that could affect the outcome of your case. Therefore, your attorney should have the experience to know court rules and be comfortable and confident in the courtroom.
#9. They Should Know the Law Well
An attorney doesn’t have to know everything about the law, but they should know the basics of common crimes. They should be able to tell you the possible penalties for the charges you are facing. If you find that an attorney is constantly looking things up, it’s probably a good idea to continue your search.
#10. They Should Communicate Well
Criminal cases can be complex, so it’s essential to hire an attorney who creates an atmosphere where you can openly communicate with them. A good attorney will pay attention to what you have to say and make sure they have all the necessary details to handle your case properly.
They should also provide you with their email address and any other forms of communication. Having this information will allow you to be in touch with your attorney throughout the process.
Let Widder Law Defend What’s Most Important to You
Being accused of a criminal offense can be terrifying, and you shouldn’t have to do it alone. You need a criminal defense attorney who has experience and can get you the results you are looking for. Therefore, it’s important to research and find the attorney that works best for you.
At Jeremy Widder Law, we know that you are going through a very stressful time. That’s why we approach every case with compassion and use our years of experience to deliver top-notch legal services. As a former prosecutor, Jeremy can provide a unique perspective to your case and create a strategy to get your desired outcome.
Contact us today and let us defend what’s most important to you.
