Americans under 26 are much more likely to be arrested than previous generations when they were the same age.
That’s mostly because of increased law enforcement for minor crimes, such as drug use and driving while intoxicated. If you’re in trouble with the law, you know the impact a criminal conviction has on your life.
It affects your ability to vote, find a job, and get an apartment. It’s much more difficult to participate in activities with a mark on your criminal record.
The only way to avoid that is to hire a top defense attorney. The choice you make can determine the rest of your life.
Don’t leave it to chance. Keep reading to learn how to choose a defense attorney.
1. Experience With Local Courts
Criminal cases will go before a judge. Each judge has their own style and ways of running criminal proceedings. An attorney that’s not aware of a judge’s style can make serious missteps that affect the outcome of the case.
The attorney you choose needs to have experience with the local courts and the confidence to try cases in front of a judge or jury.
2. Specialize in Your Case
There’s a big difference between defending juvenile crimes and manslaughter. You want to make sure that the criminal attorney you choose specializes in your type of case.
Attorneys usually have this information posted on their websites. For instance, nicewicz.com shows the types of cases they defend, such as serious traffic violations and larceny.
3. Approachable
It’s essential that you feel comfortable with the attorney. You need a defense attorney that’s tough as nails in the courtroom, but approachable outside of it.
If you’re not comfortable, that impacts the communication between you and your attorney. You might feel intimidated to ask questions and hold back information that can help your case.
The best defense attorney is approachable and empathetic. They have a communication style that you feel comfortable with.
4. Transparent Fee Structure
The criminal attorney is going to put a lot of work into your case. You will have to pay for the attorney’s services. Criminal attorneys charge anywhere between $150 to $500 an hour or more.
The best defense lawyer isn’t always the least expensive. You want to make sure you understand all of the costs involved with your case, such as expert witness expenses and administrative fees.
The attorney should clearly explain their fee structure and give a fair estimate of the total cost of your defense.
5. Takes Time to Research the Specifics of Your Case
An attorney might try to use a defense strategy that worked in other cases. They might have a standard approach or think they can improvise on the fly.
Look for an attorney that’s willing to research your case. They should have great investigation skills to put to work.
Hire the Top Defense Attorney for Your Case
How can you hire a top defense attorney in your area? Interview a few attorneys to make sure you hire the best one for your case.
Now that you know what to look for in a top criminal defense attorney, take a look at the Law section of this site for more legal help.
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