FAQ

Is It Important To Hire a Lawyer Who Focuses on Criminal Law?

The legal profession covers a vast expanse of information and procedures which differ in various areas. No one person can be familiar with all of these areas. If you are charged with a criminal offense, you don’t want an attorney who is trying to get up-to-speed in criminal law. Not only will it probably cost more, but his or her representation will very likely be inferior to an attorney who practices in this area every day. It is like asking a house painter to paint your portrait. He has the paint. He can get the tools, but the result probably won’t justify the fee. You are likely to receive far superior results from a lawyer who practices criminal law.

When Do I Need A Lawyer?

Legal advice can solve some problems and prevent others. If you are accused of committing a crime, you need legal advice.

How Do I Find a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Recommendations from friends and acquaintances are always a good option.  Additionally, if you know a lawyer who can’t handle your problem, he or she can offer a referral to a lawyer who has experience with your issue.

Ask your friends, co-workers and employers if they recommend any lawyers. Business people or professionals such as doctors, social workers, bankers, teachers, and ministers may also have referrals. Take some time to find the best attorney for your case.

How Will I Know if a Criminal Defense Lawyer Is Right for Me?

You should speak with the lawyer and his/her staff and get a feel for them. During this meeting, you should ask how much experience the lawyer has had with situations like yours and how recently he or she handled a similar case.

Hiring a lawyer who primarily practices law in the same court or jurisdiction where your case is located and has an office in the area is a good rule of thumb. It cuts down on travel expenses and ensures the attorney is familiar with the criminal justice system.

What Should I Consider When Hiring a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

When meeting with the lawyer, bring the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of everyone connected with your case. You also should bring all papers involved in your case, such as all documents you received from any governmental source. Ask to hear about cases like yours that the lawyer has handled. Consider the following:

1.) Will you be comfortable working closely with the lawyer?

2.) Do you believe the lawyer has the experience and skill to handle your case?

3.) Do you understand the lawyer’s explanation of your case?

4.) Do you have confidence that the lawyer will work hard to serve your interests?

Why Should I Have a Written Fee Agreement?

No matter what the amount, no one likes to pay legal fees. Therefore, it is important for you and your lawyer to agree, in writing, about what you will pay the lawyer and what services the lawyer will perform. This way, both of you will know what to expect from one another as you work together on your case.

What Should be in the Fee Agreement?

Your written fee agreement should set out the services the lawyer will perform for you, and the type and amount of fees you will be expected to pay. The agreement should also say how costs – the other expenses of your case – will be handled and explain the lawyer’s billing practices. The agreement should also indicate if the lawyer is going to add interest or other charges to unpaid amounts.

What Do I Need to Do to Have a Successful Lawyer-Client Partnership?

• Be sure that you and your lawyer have the same goals.
• Be sure you understand and are comfortable with the lawyer’s working style.
• Be especially certain that you have a clear idea of the expected timing of your case, including when you can expect significant developments.
• Be sure that you provide the lawyer with the information and documents necessary to understand your case.
• Be sure you understand and agree with the lawyer’s billing practices.
• Be sure that if you have questions or concerns about your legal matter, you ask the lawyer and listen to the answers.

When Should I See a Lawyer?

If you are arrested for a crime, you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible. He or she has a better sense of what you should and should not say to law enforcement officers to avoid being misinterpreted or misunderstood.

I Have Not Been Arrested, but I Have Been Accused of a Crime. What Should I Do?

Use caution. It is best to consult with an attorney. This is especially true if a law enforcement official is asking you to give a statement or cooperate in an investigation. You should consult with an attorney BEFORE making ANY statements. What you say, no matter how well-intentioned, can be misinterpreted and may be used as evidence against you later. Even if you are promised leniency in exchange for your cooperation, you can never retract what you have already said. Therefore, it is best to consult with an attorney before making any statements to ensure that your rights are protected.