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Even the best criminal will eventually be caught and will need quality legal representation. This means that if you, or someone close to you, are confronted with a criminal charge, you will need an experienced representative to bail you out of trouble.
Facing steep fines, or a possible prison sentence, this is not a time to make compromises and watch your pennies. Find the best possible criminal lawyer, familiar with situations like yours, and ask him to represent you.
This is, of course, easier said than done, especially if this is your first offense. Unfamiliar with the territory, how can you possibly know which lawyer or solicitor is qualified to handle your case and bring it to a proper close?
Here are a few things to consider when going on a criminal lawyer hunt:
Qualifications
- Ensure that the lawyers you have on your short list thoroughly know the law pertaining to the crime you were charged with. A lawyer who specializes in car accidents won't do you much good if you were arrested for burglary.
- When you are researching potential candidates, verify that they actually passed the bar exam and are qualified to practice in your state or territory.
- Ask for references to check up on their success rate, track record and claims to fame.
Expertise
Many people study well, but that not necessarily makes them good professionals. Criminal law is very complex and, therefore, mediocre qualifications may not always be enough to get the job done right.
Look for criminal law specialists with expertise. Ask how many years they have been practicing and what kind of experience they have in the field you require legal representation in. The more they know, the better, just in case other charges are filed against you later on. It would not be the first time a case escalates.
Overall Success Rate
Words are cheap, and anyone can say they have an excellent success rate. A little research can go a long way in helping you determine if the statistics you were presented with are indeed accurate. Do keep in mind though, that no track record will be perfect. Everyone loses now and then, or makes a bad decision. As long as you feel comfortable with the overall success results, follow your instincts and close the deal.
Plan of Action
Every lawyer you talk to will have a different strategy, or plan of action. Although you may not want to reveal too many details of your case until you have actually hired the lawyer, find out which approach is suggested to best resolve your unfortunate situation. If it does not make sense to you, move on to the next legal representative on your list.
Overall cost
Be aware that legal repre
sentation can be quite costly. Criminal Lawyers generally charge by the hour, and will usually request a lump sum up front (retainer). How much that will be will depend on the severity of your case, the expenses the lawyer anticipates, and a number of other factors. To avoid ugly surprises, settle financial issues up front. It will bring both you and your lawyer peace of mind
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