As the hammer falls, your heart starts gerating. Your hands are clenched, you feel asphyxiated, trapped. Facing conviction…sucks. There is no blunter way to describe it. Which is why you may be worried about the defense lawyer you choose to fight the justice system on your behalf.
The scary truth is…
In the last 40-years, almost 1800 innocent convicts were exonerated for their crime in America.
At the end of the day, the lawyers for these individuals just did not have the material, qualifications or skills to win the battle in the courtroom. Which is why we decided to step in and help our readers with a few tips on how to find the right defense lawyer to represent you on your case.
So chin up, let’s get into it:
Why Is It Important To Choose The Right Criminal Defense Lawyer
Well, what’s the point of being picky when it comes to finding one, they are all the same, right?
It’s understandable if you feel this way. But in truth, each lawyer is different. From experience, connections, specialization, and so much more.
Most importantly of all, you need to feel comfortable with your lawyer, after all your freedom is on the line. Finding the right lawyer that matches all of these qualities will improve the probability of a win and keep you away from the consequences of a loss.
Location Is Probably The Most Important Thing To Remember
It happens all the time in the states. Family from three states down find out your facing conviction. They know someone, who knows someone that is a lawyer. All of a sudden, you breathe a sigh of relief due to not needing to drop a fortune on a lawyer to defend you.
If you really want the best possible chance, this is probably the last thing you want to do.
Legalities differ between states. Certain policies and clauses that may apply in one state, may not apply in another. Which is why it is incredibly important to find a local lawyer familiar with the local laws, statutes and court policies.
Quick Tip: Restrict your lawyer search to your specific state where you are going to court.
Make Sure The Lawyer Specializes In Criminal Defense
Generally speaking, from the moment a lawyer has his/her license, they are legally allowed to defend citizens, regardless of whether it is domestic violence, criminal, or even petty crimes.
But the problem is each of these types of cases have a completely different approach, and mannerism behind them.
The smallest gesture, sentence, or conviction from your lawyer could make all the difference in the case. Which is why you want a lawyer who is familiar with the intricacies of criminal defense.
The best way to check the practise trade of your lawyer is to visit their website. Generally, this is where they will list their expertise. Make sure criminal defense is ranked high up on the list, or they may not be the best fit.
Can You Get Along With Your Lawyer
What, that’s plain ridiculous! I am not hiring my lawyer to make a friend…
I have heard it all before. But trust me, at the end of the day, the entire process is simplified as soon as you get along with your lawyer.
Remember, depending on the severity of your case it could drag on for months. You may have to reveal personal aspects of your life, and possible traumatic experiences. Which is why it is important to feel comfortable talking to your lawyer.
After all, the last thing you want is to trip over your own feet by not giving your lawyer the information they need to adequately handle your case. You can check out this article for a more in-depth discussion on choosing the right lawyer based on personality.
Oh yeah, and we can;t forget the important list of questions that you need to ask your lawyer before you hire them.
How Large Is The Lawyers Resource Pool
For some reason, media has painted lawyers as cutthroat workers who never help, never back down, and never lose! This hostility we see on lawyer shows has created the false impression that lawyers are lone wolves.
Taking on the world one case at a time.
But this could not be further from the truth.
In reality, lawyers value the relations that they build throughout their career. As more often than not, they will turn to colleagues for a fresh pair of eyes on their case. Which is why you want to make sure you opt for a lawyer that has plenty of peers willing to offer their expertise on your case.
After all, a small crucial piece of evidence can literally make or break your freedom.
The Cost Of The Attorney
It’s no secret that hiring a lawyer can literally break the bank. In America, lawyers charge a small fortune for their services. But at the end of the day, when you realize the bullet you dodge, it will be worth every penny.
But that should be one of the first questions you ask your lawyer. And make sure you are able to handle their payments. Of course, you can also opt for a public defender. However, more often than not, these lawyers are packed with random cases on the daily.
Meaning they don’t have the time to give your case the proper attention it deserves.
