When you or a loved one is arrested, it can be a very scary and confusing time. You may not know where to turn for help, but one of the most important decisions you will make is who to hire as your criminal defence attorney. It is crucial that you do your research and find an attorney who has the experience and knowledge to defend your case successfully.
Look For An Attorney Who Specializes In Criminal Defense
When looking for an attorney, you want to make sure they specialize in criminal defence. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised how many people try to hire a general practice lawyer when charged with a crime. A general practice lawyer may be able to help you with things like traffic tickets or wills, but when it comes to something as serious as a criminal charge, you need an attorney who specializes in this area of law.
An experienced criminal defence attorney will know the ins and outs of the criminal justice system and will be able to navigate through it much better than a general practice lawyer. They will also have relationships with prosecutors and judges, which can help get your charges reduced or dismissed.
Look For An Attorney With Trial Experience
If you are facing criminal charges, the last thing you want is for your case to go to trial. However, it is always a good idea to have an attorney on your side who has trial experience. This way, if your case goes to trial, you will know that you have an attorney who is prepared and knows what they are doing.
When looking for an attorney, ask about their trial experience. It would help if you also asked about the types of cases they have tried and whether or not they have won those cases. The more information you can gather about an attorney’s trial experience, the better equipped you will be to decide whether or not they are the right attorney for your case.
Get Referrals From People You Trust
If you know someone who has been in a similar situation, ask them for referrals. They will be able to give you the names of criminal defence attorneys they interviewed and ultimately hired. This will give you a great starting point in your search for the best attorney for your case.
Another way to get referrals is to ask local lawyers whom they recommend. While they may not have personal experience with criminal defence attorneys, they will likely know other lawyers in the area who do. This can help you narrow your search and find an attorney well-respected by their peers.
Lastly, you can always contact your area’s bar association. They can provide you with a list of qualified criminal defence attorneys in your area. Once you have a list of potential attorneys, you can start setting up consultations to find the best one for your case.
If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime, you must take the time to find the best criminal defence attorney for your case. By following these three tips, you can be sure that you are making the best decision for your future.
