If you are facing felony charges, we don’t have to tell you how serious the impact such charges could present. Furthermore, a guilty verdict can have a life-changing impact. It can be a totally disruptive experience and can affect many important aspects of your life. However, the difference between a guilty verdict and a clearance of all charges can be a competent, skilled attorney well-versed in pertinent criminal law.
If this describes you, then you have a lot of questions and you need answers. But, with so many lawyers advertising their services, how do you know which one is right for you? Surely, there must be another way other than relying on commercial advertising. Yes, there are! Therefore, below are five important ways in which you could find an attorney who is the perfect fit for you and your case.
1. Get a Referral
A good place to start is right at home by asking family, friends, and trusted coworkers if they could recommend an attorney with a track record of winning criminal cases. Do you know someone who faced criminal charges and evaded a conviction due to the well-prepared defense of a criminal law attorney? If so, get the attorney’s contact information.
The State Bar Association in your state also has a list of referrals. You can call the office and let the representative know what type of attorney you are looking for. They will provide one or more referrals, and the same service is provided by legal aid organizations.
2. Search the Web
Conduct an internet search for “top ten criminal lawyers in (your city)” and look at the names and experience. Many criminal defense law firms have websites that provide a lot of helpful information about the types of criminal cases they defend. Some even list the high-profile cases that they won. If one piques your interest, give their office a call.
3. Meet with Prospects
After you narrow down your list of prospects, call their offices to speak with them. Many offer free consultations. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about the attorney’s credentials and rate of success. Do your homework beforehand, however. Come prepared with questions that will help you make an informative decision. You can get an idea of how the attorney would defend your case. Take up the amount of time allotted. Ask questions about costs so that you can make sure your budget will allow you to hire this attorney or law firm if you really like them.
4. Choose Your Attorney Wisely
After you have met the attorneys on your shortlist, choose which one is right for you. You need to feel comfortable working with this attorney because he or she will get to know a lot about you. You are going to have to give them information that you may be embarrassed about supplying. In this moment, remember why you chose him or her. Since you know this attorney is working on your behalf, you need to comply with their instructions at all times. Get the information to them by their deadlines. Remember, they are the experts and your future is dependent on their defense.
5. Get Everything in Writing
You and your attorney will work out the details of your working relationship and all that pertains to your defense. Review the fine print carefully and make sure you understand it. If you do not, or if something is not totally clear, ask questions before you sign on the dotted line.
Defending felony charges is a very serious matter and it is worth the time and effort to get the best attorney for your case. Therefore, don’t rush the process. You want to give your attorney enough time to prepare a defense, but you also want to get the best one to do that. So, take the time to do your due diligence. Your freedom could be at stake, so don’t make a mistake!