How to Find a Good Criminal Defense Lawyer
You can find a good criminal defense lawyer by considering your needs, evaluating potential attorneys based on criteria that are significant to you, and reviewing their track record. Taking advantage of free consultations can help you get to know attorneys better as well.
If you need a criminal defense lawyer, it is probably for a very good reason. When you are facing the full strength of the criminal justice system, you don’t want to fight that battle alone. A skilled attorney can greatly impact the outcome of your case and your future.
Our Oakland criminal defense lawyers have served over 10,000 clients with unapologetic tenacity. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation and tell us your story.
The Role of Your Criminal Defense Lawyer
It is important to understand the role of a criminal defense lawyer and what to expect when hiring an attorney. You likely know that a criminal defense lawyer specializes in defending individuals and organizations accused of crimes.
Some of an attorney’s tasks may include:
- Investigate your case and help you better understand your situation and your choices
- Represent you in court with the goal of achieving the best possible outcome
- Protect your civil rights and ensure a fair process
- Negotiate to have your charges reduced or dismissed
- Argue for reduced or alternative sentencing if you are convicted
- Help with appeals if there is an avenue to do so
Skilled criminal defense attorneys must know how to devise a strategy for your defense while also being able to pivot when things don’t go as planned. Your attorney is your advocate and ensures you are treated as innocent until proven guilty.
Experience and Expertise
Criminal defense attorneys who don’t win don’t stay in the profession for long. Experience is one of the main factors to consider when choosing a defense attorney. With experience comes knowledge and expertise.
Consider their credentials and certifications to gauge their expertise as well as their track record of success. While no attorney can guarantee a win, those who have a history of positive results for their clients have proven to be effective.
Does the attorney have experience with your specific type of case? Certainly, skilled attorneys understand how to research and form defenses for any charge, but there is no substitute for lessons learned through experience.
Attorney Reputation
Another way to find a good criminal defense lawyer is to research their reputation with clients and other attorneys. Reputation can tell you a lot about their competence and skill. A lawyer who has earned the respect of their peers and clients is doing something right.
You can assess their reputation in several ways:
- Client reviews and testimonials: Check online review sites and local websites to see what other clients have said. Watch for notes on communication, professionalism, and work ethic.
- Peer recognition: Sometimes, attorneys receive awards that can indicate their standing in the legal community. While a lack of awards doesn’t necessarily mean they are bad attorneys, peer recognition can indicate respect and a certain level of expertise.
- Disciplinary record: Consult your state’s bar association to determine if the lawyer has any disciplinary actions against them. If an attorney has multiple infractions, it may be wise to avoid them.
Communication Skills
You may learn about a lawyer’s communication skills by reading reviews. A free case evaluation is also a good opportunity to assess how an attorney communicates. You will want to explain your case and learn as much as you can about how the attorney works.
Consider asking questions such as:
- Do you have experience handling cases similar to mine?
- What strategies do you suggest in my case?
- What is your approach when defending clients (aggressive, analytical, etc.)?
- How often will we discuss updates to my case?
- What are your fees and payment arrangements?
You should be happy not only with the content of their answers but also with their manner of interacting with you. Are they clear and direct? Do they listen attentively? Do they make you feel like your case matters?
Personal Compatibility
You need to figure out not only how to choose a good defense lawyer but also how to select the right attorney for you. Personal compatibility matters when you are working with someone who has your life in their hands. You don’t need to be friends, but you should feel confident in them.
That means different things to different people. You must decide how much personal compatibility matters to you. Do you need to like your lawyer? Or are y
Most good attorneys understand that it’s not just about the battle in the courtroom. Their clients are real people who deserve empathy, and many attorneys genuinely care about them and their families.
Do You Need a Good Criminal Defense Lawyer?
You can find a good criminal defense lawyer by understanding your needs, reviewing attorneys with your requirements in mind, and paying attention to their records and reputation. When you are fighting for your future, you want an attorney you can trust to get the job done.
It is important to remember that not every law firm, regardless of its accomplishments, is a good fit for you. You are the client, and you need to choose a firm you feel comfortable with and that communicates in a way that makes sense to you.
At Sliver Law Firm, we’ve been in business for over 30 years, advocating for the rights of people accused of criminal action. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can help.
