If you are facing any kind of criminal charges, then you know that these are serious circumstances. If you want the best possible chance at ensuring a good outcome, then you need the right attorney for the job. Here is your guide to finding the perfect fit for you:
Consider a Full Service Firm
Yes, you are looking for a criminal attorney but remember that there are other people to consider as well. After all, it is unlikely that a single lawyer will be working on your case. Instead, you will often have a team of people taking care of the various angles of your case.
Due to this, take a close look at the criminal defense lawyers team that will be tending to you. What kind of skills does each person bring to the table? Are they able to work together and function efficiently as a team? Having intelligent, talented people working in tandem to help you can improve the chances of you winning your case.
Look for Prior Experience
The true measure of an attorney is how much prior experience they have with certain types of cases. As such, it is important to sit down and ask your lawyer about the kind of cases they have handled in the past.
Have they tackled a case that is similar to yours? If so, what kind of approach did they take? What was the result or verdict in that instance? Will the lawyer be considering a similar approach to your case or not? If so, what is their reasoning for that particular decision?
The more that you delve into an attorney’s background, the easier it will be for you to determine if they will be a good fit for your case or not.
Examine the Fee Structure
Every law firm has a different system for payments. Some will charge by the hour while others will calculate how much to charge you based on the outcome of the case. This is something that you will need to discuss ahead of time. This way, you will not be blindsided when it is time to pay your bills.
Remember to always ask if you will be paying a flat rate or if other fees or charges can crop up during the consultation or trial process. If you are provided with a payment contract, make sure to read the fine print carefully.
Pay Attention to Gut Instinct
It is important for you to like and trust your attorney. Therefore, always pay attention to how you feel about your attorney during the first few consultations. Think about whether they listen to you and if they are actively connecting and communicating with you.
It is just as vital that they have the same morals as you too. You need to be comfortable with how your attorney is going to be handling your case. Otherwise, you will be at odds with one another.
These are all the things that you should consider when looking for a criminal attorney for yourself. You will then be able to make an informed decision about whether or not they will be the right representation for you.
