When you have been accused of a crime and are facing criminal charges, it is easy to despair and feels as if it is the end of your world. The seriousness of criminal charges shouldn’t be discounted. Still, a good criminal lawyer at your side can lessen the severity of what you are facing and even help you defend yourself successfully.
Choosing a criminal law firm to defend yourself against charges is one of the most important decisions you will make in your life, and you don’t want to trust your future to just anyone. Here are some tips that can help you figure out which lawyer is right for you.
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Ask About Their Experience
While newcomers to the field of law can still be brilliant, they might not have the trial experience necessary to defend you properly. Even if the lawyer assigned to your case does not have much experience, the rest of the firm should have many years of criminal law behind it so you know that the collective knowledge working on your case will help you win.
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Make Sure They Specialize in Criminal Law
Many law firms try to offer as many legal services as possible to capitalize on desperate people who need help. However, the old saying, “A jack of all trades is a master of none,” is actually a good guide to choosing a criminal lawyer as well.
If a lawyer or firm has several different specialty areas, that means they didn’t have the time to track the frequently changing law regarding criminal offences. You want a lawyer that is completely focused on your case and your needs.
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See How They Communicate with You
Your case may be just another problem to solve for your lawyer, but to you, it is a matter of salvaging your future. The right lawyer will be sensitive to your situation. Not only will they communicate freely with you about the details of your case, but they will also be respectful and reassuring about your future.
If you feel as if your lawyer can’t wait to get you out of the office or is brusque with you, it’s not just about protecting your ego. You can’t trust that this lawyer will dedicate the full possible effort to your case, so find another one.
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Ask About Their Confidentiality Policies
The details of a criminal case are often painful and sensitive. Those details leaking could also impact the outcome of your case if the wrong person overhears. A reputable lawyer will protect your confidentiality, such as sharing your information only with other members of the firm working on your case, meeting in private, secure locations (although TV lawyers meet clients at bars, yours should not), and securing online communication.
If your lawyer is dismissive about your requests for confidentiality, you cannot be confident in the meticulous nature of their work.
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Be Wary of Their Promises
After assessing the details of your case, a good criminal law firm will get back to you with information about the action plan. While you want to hear that you will walk away without any charges, a lawyer who promises to prove your innocence when the case is stacked against you is just trying to take your money. Similarly, a lawyer who is pushing you into a plea deal despite a lack of evidence is not willing to fight for you.
These questions can help you navigate the important choice of a criminal law firm during a stressful time in your life.