If you have been charged with a felony or misdemeanor, it can be a difficult decision to choose the right criminal defense attorney. However, it is recommended that you make the choice to be represented by an experienced and reputable attorney like the team at The Law Office of Hernandez & Hamilton, P.C . It is never recommended to represent yourself. When choosing a lawyer, there a few pertinent questions that you should ask before you decide to work with them. The criminal justice system in the United States is complicated and very confusing. In order to decrease some of your anxiety, it is best to know what to expect of your attorney before the trial begins.
How Much Experience Do You Have?
In most cases, your chosen attorney will have legal educational experience. In addition, they all have to pass the bar exam. While every attorney will tell you that they can handle your case, some will be operating off of hope and others have amassed the knowledge and experience through years of taking cases to trial and/or negotiating with prosecutors. These are two important factors. More than 90% of cases end with a plea bargain. This means that most attorneys have little to no experience with taking a criminal case to trial. Ensure that you ask about their experience with your specific type of case as well as their history of successfully going to trial and winning.
Who Will be Handling My Case?
Many attorneys work with a large company or have a team that can be comprised of paralegals and/or other legal associates. Working with an attorney that has a large team may result in lower fees and more points of contact. However, the more professionals involved in your case increase the likelihood of something “falling through the cracks.” If your case is particularly complex or you have concerns in general, it may be best to work with an attorney that will personally handle every aspect of your defense.
What is Your Assessment of My Case?
Most criminal defense attorneys offer a free consultation. It is recommended that you take advantage of two to three consultations before you make a choice. During your conversation, it is best to ask your potential attorney what their assessment of your case is. Additionally, it is important to inquire of their thoughts about accepting a plea bargain, going to trial as well as what type of plea they would recommend. You should also ask about potential issues that they can see with your case. Lastly, ensure that you have an understanding of what to expect during each phase of the trial.
What is Your Fee Structure?
It may go without saying, however it is imperative that you have a clear understanding of an attorney’s fee structure before you hire one. Ensure that you know whether or not they charge a flat fee or an hourly rate. Furthermore, ask your attorney about preferred communication methods. Some attorneys will allow you to call them and ask questions about your case free of charge, other lawyers will bill you for every minute that they are on the phone with you. Also, inquire about additional fees. Once the fee structure has been agreed to, ensure that you have an understanding of payment methods. Will it be upfront payment or do they accept payment plans? It best to have this ironed out from the beginning. The stress of surprise fees and payment expectations can be overwhelming when going through a criminal defense trial.
