Conduct a quick Google search on “criminal lawyers near me,” and you’ll find plenty of firms ready to talk about your case. You’ll also realize that not all attorneys are created equal, and the right criminal defense attorney can be the difference between a guilty and innocent verdict.
While it’s vital to find an attorney quickly after being charged with a crime, it’s even more critical to hire the right attorney for your unique situation.
Below are five questions professional lawyers, like the ones at Spodek Law Group, like to hear when a potential client is looking for a criminal defense attorney.
5 Important Questions Ask Before Hiring a Criminal Lawyer
In addition to conducting your own research on an attorney, like how long they’ve practiced criminal law and their professional and educational background, you also want to ask these five important questions.
1. Will You Be the Lawyer Working on My Case from Start to Finish?
Larger law firms typically employ paralegals and junior associates; therefore, the main attorneys of the firm will often appoint certain tasks to members of their legal team. While this can be beneficial to you in many ways, you also want to ensure that the attorney you are speaking with in the beginning is the one making the decisions in your case and actively invested in your outcome.
2. Have You Represented People with Cases Similar to Mine?
Attorneys can handle thousands of cases a year but are any similar to yours?
A lawyer who is knowledgeable about criminal charges, like those at Spodek Law Group, can save you a lot of time, money, and stress. Ask about the details of similar cases – did they go to trial, and what were the final outcomes? Hearing about real cases will shine light on your lawyer’s knowledge and experience.
3. What is a Brief Strategy of How You Would Handle My Case?
No criminal attorney can tell you the outcome of your case. However, they can evaluate your case and let you know the strengths and weaknesses. With the background of your unique situation, a good lawyer can give you a brief outline of a defensive strategy on how to proceed with your case.
4. What Can I Do to Help?
Every defendant in a criminal case has a role to play. This role is often providing critical documents and background information to your lawyer. Depending on the nature of your case, you may be asked to conduct other activities, but only if they benefit your case. An experienced attorney at Spodek Law Group can help advise you on your specific requirements.
5. How Much Will This Cost?
Knowing the cost and fees upfront will help you make an informed decision when hiring a criminal lawyer. You want the best lawyer for your case, but you can’t commit to a cost that puts you in financial trouble. Regardless of your legal situation, attorneys at Spodek Law Group are here to help you. The only way to know about costs and fees related to your case is to schedule a consultation.
Conclusion
These five questions are just a few of the many you should prepare when hiring a criminal defense attorney. It’s important to be well-prepared with other questions that are specific to your case.
