Tips for finding the best criminal defense lawyer to represent you
Posted on September 18, 2017 by John
If you’re in trouble with the law, the last thing you want to do is make matters worse for yourself by hiring inferior legal representation. Getting the best possible lawyer to represent you is a high stakes decision that could impact your pocketbook and your freedom.
There are many talented criminal defense lawyers, which is a good thing, but it also serves to create a challenge if you’ve never had to make use of their services before. Here are some things to consider as you start your search and begin to narrow it to the most qualified candidates to represent you.
Experience means everything
Lots of attorneys have years of experience in criminal defense cases, but that alone is not a standard for you to consider. You need to have an attorney who has years of the right experience as well. That means, if you are facing assault charges, find an attorney who has dealt with lots of assault cases. If you’re facing burglary charges, look for a great burglary defense attorney. Most attorneys will specialize in the types of cases they work on to some degree or another. Find that attorney to give yourself the best chance to make use of their specific expertise.
Familiarity counts
An experienced attorney can give you an added advantage if they have tried cases in the court system where your case will be heard. Knowing how judges and prosecutors operate and what their tendencies are is critical to all phases of your defense. That familiarity can help negotiate a better plea bargain for you, as well as helping you understand what is likely to happen in the court if you end up going to trial, based on previous experiences.
Pay attention to communication skills, reputation and references
You are forming a partnership with an attorney, and just like any job interview, you want to make sure their communication skills, reputation and references are in line with your expectations. The better the relationship is with your attorney, the better they can help you win your case and keep your freedom.
The Law Office of David Leicht serves the California communities of Barstow, Victorville, Apple Valley, Hesperia, Adelanto, Baker, Needles, Lucerne Valley, Big Bear, San Bernardino, Mojave, Phelan, and Wrightwood.
For a free consultation, call (760) 256-3104.
