Important Questions to Ask Your Criminal Defense Attorney

If you or a loved one has been charged with a crime, it is important to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The attorney you choose will play a crucial role in the outcome of your case, so it is important that you choose someone who you feel comfortable with and who you trust to represent you.

When meeting with potential attorneys, be sure to ask them the following questions: How Much Experience Do You Have? You want to be sure to hire an attorney who has significant experience handling cases similar to yours. Ask the attorney how many cases like yours they have handled and what the outcomes of those cases were. An experienced criminal defense attorney will know how to anticipate the tactics prosecutors are likely to use against you and will be better able to defend you against them.

What Is Your Track Record?

In addition to experience, you also want an attorney with a proven track record of success. While every case is different and there is no guarantee of success, you want to know that your attorney has a history of getting favorable results for their clients.

How Much Will This Cost?

Cost is always an important consideration when hiring any professional, but it is especially important when hiring an attorney. Hiring a more expensive attorney does not necessarily mean that you will get a better result, but you do want to be sure that you can afford the representation you need. Be sure to ask about the cost of services up front so there are no surprises later on. Are you certified? Some states offer certification for criminal defense attorneys. This certification requires the attorney to have completed a certain amount of CLE credits, passed a written exam, and been in practice for a certain number of years. Certification is not required in every state, but it is something that you may want to consider when hiring an attorney.

How will you keep me updated on my case? You have a right to know what is happening with your case at all times. Be sure to ask the attorney how he or she plans on keeping you updated as your case progresses. A good attorney will return your phone calls and emails promptly and keep you apprised of any new developments in your case. What are my options? After hearing the facts of your case, the attorney should be able to give you an idea of the different options that are available to you. If the attorney only discusses one option, such as pleading guilty, you may want to consider hiring another lawyer.

What do you think is the best outcome in my case?

Your goal should be to find an experienced and knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer who has handled cases similar to yours and who knows the ins and outs of the criminal justice system in your jurisdiction. An experienced lawyer will be able to tell you what he or she thinks is the best outcome given the facts of your particular case.

Conclusion:

These are just a few of the questions you should ask when meeting with potential criminal defense attorneys. Hiring the right attorney is crucial to the outcome of your case, so take your time and choose someone who you feel confident in and who you can trust to represent your best interests.