How to Choose the Right Criminal Defense Attorney
Criminal charges pose the possibility of being imprisoned. In the same vein, it can ruin your image, damage your character, and put your career at risk, even if you’re not found guilty. Reggie London says that with all the complications of the legal system and pending decisions that impact your freedom, your first priority must be looking for a competent criminal defense attorney who will best represent you in court. There are many aspects to weigh in order to find the right lawyer. The below suggestions will be helpful in your research.
1. Look at the Lawyer’s Experience
When you’re facing criminal charges, it’s a serious matter. You want a lawyer who really knows their stuff—someone who’s been around the legal system. It’s especially helpful if they’ve worked in the local courts because they’ll probably know the lay of the land.
Plus, they might have some good relationships with the prosecutors and judges, which can be helpful when negotiating or trying to get your charges reduced. But remember, it’s not just about how long they’ve been practicing law; it’s about whether they’ve actually been successful. You want a lawyer who’s got a track record of winning cases.
2. What Kind of Cases Has the Lawyer Dealt With Before?
Not only does experience matter, but it is critical that your attorney has handled cases similar to yours. Sure, some lawyers handle all kinds of criminal charges, but others specialize. For instance, if you’ve been busted for DUI, you probably don’t want a lawyer who’s only ever defended shoplifters. If you’re not sure what kinds of cases the lawyer has handled before, just ask. Or check out some testimonials from past clients.
3. Personality Counts
Dealing with the cops and prosecutors can be super stressful. So, you want a lawyer who’s not afraid to go to bat for you. Look for someone with a bit of a fire in their belly, who’s not afraid to push back. But watch out for anyone who promises you the moon – no lawyer can guarantee an outcome. Instead, they should explain what they’ll do to build a strong defense. If they’re promising you the world, it might be time to look elsewhere.
4. Think Twice About Public Defenders
It might seem like a no-brainer to go with a public defender; after all, they’re free. But here’s the thing: they’re often overloaded with cases and might not have much time to spend on yours. Plus, they might not have as much courtroom experience as a private attorney. If you can swing it, hiring your own lawyer might be worth the investment.
5. Go Local
Hiring a lawyer who knows the local scene can be a game-changer. They’ll know the ins and outs of the local courts, which prosecutors are tough cookies, and which ones might be willing to cut a deal. Having that local know-how could really work in your favor.
6. Look for Board Certification
If you find a lawyer who’s board-certified in criminal defense, that’s a pretty good sign. It means they’ve got some serious chops in that particular area of the law.
7. Meet Them in Person
According to Reggie London, you can do a lot of research online, but there’s no substitute for meeting someone face-to-face. Make use of the free first consultations that most attorneys provide. Pay attention to how you feel during the meeting; if something feels off, trust your gut.
8. Make Sure They’re Available
When you’re dealing with criminal charges, time is of the essence. You want a lawyer who’s there when you need them, not one who disappears into the ether. If they’re hard to get hold of at the beginning, they might be even harder to track down later on.
9. Consider the Cost
As it is in human nature, we always want to save money, but skimping on legal fees might not be the best idea. After all, this is the freedom we’re talking about. That said, you don’t necessarily need to go for the most expensive lawyer either. Just make sure you understand how they charge and what you’re getting for your money.
10. Confidence Is Key
Even if your case doesn’t end up going to trial, you want a lawyer who’s ready to step into the courtroom if need be. Ask them about their experience in front of a judge and jury. And remember, while they’re there to guide you, it’s ultimately your call when it comes to important decisions about your case.
Questions to Ask During the Consultation:
- How long have you been doing this?
- Have you dealt with cases like mine before?
- Are you part of any professional groups?
- How many times have you gone to trial?
- What are my options?
- What could go wrong with my case?
- What’s the best and worst thing that could happen?
- How much will this cost me?
- Are there any extra fees I should know about?
- Any other questions you have about your situation.
Last Words of Advice
To wrap up, choosing a criminal defense lawyer means focusing on experience, specialization, and personal fit. Do your homework, considering factors like their knowledge of local courts, trial experience, and fees. Reggie London concluded that during meetings, trust your instincts and ask questions to determine if they are the right fit for you. Remember, your choice of attorney can really impact your case. Take your time, weigh your options, and go with the legal representation that suits your needs best.
