If you’re facing charges, you want to walk into the courtroom with the best-of-the-best by your side.
Names like Annalise Keating and Saul Goodman might be the first to come to mind. Unfortunately, these fictional TV attorneys won’t be much help in your case.
The good news is that you can find a defense lawyer who is just as clever and determined. But we know it can be difficult, seeing as it’s not every day that you have to search for legal representation.
That’s where our guide comes in. Read on to learn what to look for in a good criminal defense lawyer and improve your chances of a positive outcome.
Contents
Know the Difference Between a Civil Attorney and Criminal Defense Lawyer
On your search for legal defense, you’ll probably come across civil attorneys and criminal defense lawyers. Know that these two professionals are not interchangeable.
If you’re facing criminal charges, you’ll need a criminal defense lawyer. A civil attorney won’t be very helpful as they exclusively handle non-criminal lawsuits.
Verify Qualifications
Once you choose the right type of legal defense, you should verify their qualifications.
A legitimate criminal defense lawyer will have a Juris Doctor degree. Additionally, they should be a member of your state’s bar association.
But don’t just take their word for it — verify credentials via the American Bar Association. You can choose your state, enter the attorney’s information, and see if they are actually board certified.
Ask About Experience
Now’s not the time to take a chance on a rookie. In addition to being board-certified, Thehardylawfirm.com notes that your private criminal defense attorney should have plenty of experience.
See how long they’ve been practicing law in your state and what kinds of cases they’ve taken. Ideally, they should be familiar with negotiations, trial proceedings, and everything in between. That way, you can count on them throughout the entire process.
Check Reviews
It might seem strange to ask your family and friends for lawyer recommendations, but it can help you find someone you trust!
If you can’t find any personal recommendations, online reviews are the next best thing. Check platforms like the Better Business Bureau and Facebook to see what clients say about the defense attorney’s communication style, pricing, etc.
Compare Price Models
When fines or prison time are at stake, you don’t want to go cheap. But you also need to find a lawyer who is within your budget.
Ask about their price model and see if it’s something you can afford. By knowing whether they charge a flat rate or by the hour, you won’t be surprised by the bill later on.
Start Your Search for a Defense Lawyer Today
It’s not enough to hire the first defense lawyer you come across — you need to find a good one. Working with the right attorney can improve the chances of clearing your name and getting back to normal.
Use these tips to start your search today! Remember that time is not on your side, meaning it’s best to find a defense attorney sooner rather than later.
Need more advice legal advice? Check out our other blog posts!
