How Do I Find An Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer?
If you find yourself facing a criminal charge, you need representation by the very best. A criminal charge could potentially have a serious impact on your freedom, livelihood, and future. Given the high stakes when fighting a criminal charge, you cannot take chances on an inexperienced or overwhelmed criminal defense lawyer. As such, you will want to thoroughly research your potential criminal defense lawyer and select a New York criminal defense attorney who will passionately fight for your legal rights.
COMPILE A LIST OF POTENTIAL ATTORNEYS
Your criminal defense attorney search should involve first compiling a strong list of potential options. Consider starting with word of mouth recommendations. If you have any friends who have used a criminal defense lawyer or attorney friends in your area, they may be able to refer you to someone they had a positive experienced with before. Do not end with accepting the referral, however, as you will want to vet the potential attorney on your own.
The internet can prove a powerful tool in your search. Alongside your word of mouth recommendations, you should scour the internet for good local lawyers. Check out your potential attorney’s website, online reviews, any published important cases, and more. Read your lawyers’ bio for more information on how long he or she has been practicing criminal defense law.
INTERVIEW YOUR POTENTIAL LAWYERS
Once you have narrowed down your list of potential criminal defense attorneys, you will want to phone them and schedule an initial interview. Some criminal defense lawyers are too busy to sit down with you in person, but most can consult with you over the phone. During your consultation with your potential lawyer, ask about their background and experience. Ask how familiar they are with the specific charges you are facing. You can then ask some questions about your particular case and how your potential lawyer might defend against the charges you face.
You will also want to ask the attorney about their legal fees and billing practices. While it may be tempting to go with the lawyer who charges the least, doing so could end up costing you more in the long run if that lawyer does not offer the experience you need. Find out how your case will be handled and whether other attorneys or paralegals may be involved in your defense. Armed with all of this information, select the lawyer with whom you have the most confidence.
