If you are facing criminal charges, having an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side is vital to ensure your rights are protected and that you are treated fairly.
Finding an experienced criminal defense lawyer is the first and one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself in the process. This process might feel overwhelming, so here are some steps you can take to find the best lawyer for you:
1. Get recommendations
Searching online for a lawyer can be very overwhelming. You might find it helpful to talk to trusted friends and family members who may know criminal defense lawyers. These recommendations can help you find someone who is experienced and trustworthy.
2. Schedule Consultations
Once you have a list of potential attorneys, schedule a time to speak with each one. Many criminal defense attorneys offer free consultations. During this meeting, you can discuss your case, ask questions, and decide if that attorney will fit you and your needs well.
3. Consider Experience
Every criminal case is different, and not every lawyer will have the experience you need to defend your case. For example, if you are charged with assault, you don’t want to hire a lawyer that specializes in defending DUIs. During the consultation, consider asking each lawyer what kind of experience they have, how often they appear in court, how many trials they have done, and what kind of cases they have experience defending.
6. Ask About Cost:
When you speak with potential criminal defense lawyers, consider asking about costs. Most lawyers use one of the following fee structures for a criminal case:
Flat Fee: Many criminal defense attorneys charge a flat fee. This means the lawyer charges you one rate upfront to cover their legal services from start to finish. The trial cost is often not included in this rate, so ask your lawyer.
Hourly Rate: Some attorneys charge clients by the hour. Hourly rates vary depending on the type of case and how experienced the lawyer is. Lawyers who charge an hourly rate usually require a retainer fee upfront. This means you pay your lawyer a certain amount, and they bill against that retainer at their hourly rate. If your entire retainer hasn’t been used at the end of the case, the attorney will refund you that amount.
You must understand how your lawyer will bill you for their services. You should feel free to ask questions before hiring anyone to avoid surprises later on.
Conclusion:
Finding and hiring the right attorney for your case is one of the best things you can do to protect yourself. Having a good criminal defense attorney can seriously impact the outcome of your case. If you face criminal charges, don’t try to navigate the process alone.