Being arrested isn’t much fun and unless you feel you deserve to be locked up for the rest of your natural life or are willing to rely on a public defender, you will likely want to hire a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
It’s very important to ask the right questions to understand your legal situation and evaluate whether this is the right lawyer for you. Here are the main things to ask before you hire anyone.
1. What Experience Do You Have Handling Cases Similar to Mine?
One of the most important factors in choosing a criminal defense lawyer is their experience with your type of criminal charge. Ask how many similar cases they’ve handled in their career, the outcomes of those cases, and whether they mainly focus on criminal defense or take a wide variety of cases in multiple areas of practice. An attorney who specializes in your crime and regularly represents clients facing the same charges will likely have greater insight into the prosecutors and proceedings.
2. What Defense Strategies Do You Think Would Be Most Effective for My Case?
An initial consultation is a good opportunity to understand the lawyer’s perspective on potential strategies for fighting your charges. The lawyer should explain defense options given the specifics of your case, such as seeking to have evidence suppressed or aiming for an acquittal at trial versus a plea bargain. Listen for thoughtful strategies rather than generic answers.
3. Are You Willing to Take My Case to Trial If Necessary?
It’s important to know if the attorney is fully prepared to bring your case to trial if a plea bargain cannot be reached. Be wary of lawyers who always advise taking a plea or seem to avoid trials. Make sure they have the time and resources in their firm to mount a vigorous defense in court if needed.
4. How Frequently Do You Communicate with Your Clients?
Open communication with your lawyer is key. During your case, they should provide regular updates on strategy sessions, court appearances, investigation findings and plea offers. Confirm the preferred methods and frequency of communication so you stay fully informed.
5. Can You Provide References from Past Clients I Can Speak To?
Reputable criminal defense lawyers should be able to provide references from former clients. Speaking to past clients can offer helpful insights on the lawyer’s communication style, trial skills, attentiveness and case outcomes. Be sure to ask whether they were satisfied with the representation.
6. What Are Your Legal Fees and How Are They Structured?
The financial conversation is never the most pleasant but it’s imperative to understand the lawyer’s fee structure, hourly rates, upfront retainer costs, and payment plan options. Get clear estimates on the projected overall costs based on how long they expect the case to take.
7. Do You Foresee Any Potential Challenges in My Case?
A skillful lawyer will spot important nuances and challenges in your case that you may have overlooked. Listen closely as they explain any red flags or thorny issues that could complicate the defense strategy. Their ability to realistically assess the case during an initial consultation is a good sign.
Asking all the right things during your first meeting with a criminal defense attorney can help you make an informed hiring decision and prevent you from being convicted because your attorney didn’t do their job properly. Take time to find the lawyer who is the right fit for you and your legal needs, and don’t be afraid to keep asking questions to maximize your understanding during the initial consultation.
