Hiring A Criminal Defense Attorney
Most people who are being charged with a crime have never before hired a criminal defense attorney. While finding the right criminal defense attorney can seem like an intimidating and daunting task, it does not have to be if you know what to look for.
The Four Pillars of Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
- Find someone with whom you are comfortable. You and your criminal defense attorney are going to be working closely together to solve a very stressful problem in your life. It is important that you are comfortable talking to your attorney.
- Find a criminal defense attorney whose primary focus is on criminal defense cases. Ask what other areas of law the attorney practices. An attorney who focuses on one area of law is more likely to be up to date on the latest legal developments in that particular area.
- Find a criminal defense attorney who is experienced. That brand new attorney fresh out of law school may quote you the cheapest price, but are you getting value for your money? You only get one chance to defend yourself, so choose an experienced criminal defense attorney who can give you the best possible defense.
- Avoid criminal defense attorneys that promise you a particular outcome in your case. No criminal defense attorney can guarantee to win your case. If a criminal defense attorney makes such a promise to you, be very suspicious.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney:
Can’t I just represent myself? Do I really need a criminal defense attorney?
You can, but it is extremely foolish to do so. An experienced criminal defense attorney understands the ins and outs of the law, can readily identify legal issues, and can present those legal issues in a persuasive way. Among attorneys we have a saying: “An attorney who represents himself, has a fool for a client.” If it is foolish for an attorney to represent himself, imagine how foolish it is for a non-attorney to try.
How much will it cost for you to represent me?
Every case is different. The legal fee for a case depends on the crime of which you are accused, the number of potential witnesses, the complexity of the case, and the potential legal issues that could be raised. A solid defense takes time and effort! It is very difficult to determine an appropriate fee without meeting and discussing the details of your case. Call today for a free consultation. Non-jail initial consultations are always free.
Can I pay with a credit card?
Yes, we accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover for payment.
