When you need the services of a criminal attorney, you may have many questions about how they do business and how they will manage your case. Criminal defense is a difficult area of the law, but a qualified defense attorney will be able to handle your case fairly and put in the effort required to ensure that you are treated justly by the courts.
Here are 11 questions that you should ask a criminal defense attorney before deciding that they should take on your case.
1. What is your background in law?
You should always ask an attorney about their background in law. You should know why they became a criminal defense attorney, the reasons why they feel that they are the best attorney for your particular case, and where their experience lies.
2. What is your success rate?
Your criminal attorney needs to be able to tell you what proportion of their cases is successful. You should also know what percentage of their cases go to a plea bargain. Statistics regarding the types of cases that fall under each category are also helpful.
3. Can you explain recent cases and their results?
A good way to get to know your criminal defense attorney is by learning about their recent cases. You may or may not have seen these cases covered in the local news. Most criminal defense attorneys will gladly share this information with a potential client, but if they do not, it is likely that they are trying to hide something.
4. Do you presume innocence?
Criminal defense attorneys have a uniquely challenging job, as their work requires putting in a great deal of effort for a person who may or may not be guilty of a crime. If your criminal defense attorney does not presume your innocence of the charges, they may be setting your case up for failure. In the case that you need to plead guilty and receive a plea bargain, your attorney still needs to treat you with fairness and respect.
5. What is your specialization within the law?
It is a good idea to have a complete picture of your attorney’s background and what skills they bring to the table. You should know right away whether a lawyer has the skills needed for you to succeed with your case. For example, if you are accused of a specific kind of offense, you will need an attorney who is qualified to help you.
6. What is your fee structure?
Quality legal representation is not cheap. Most attorneys charge flat fees for their services. They sometimes set up a range of fees that you could be charged. Luckily, you will not need to pay your criminal defense attorney by the hour.
7. Do you work with a legal team?
It is a good idea to know upfront whether your case will be handled by more than one person. Having an entire law firm’s services to rely on can make your money go further. A large law firm will have many different attorneys to handle your case, plus paralegals and clerks to help them.
8. How will you handle my case?
Letting your potential attorney walk you through how they expect the case to go is a great idea. They can tell you whether you should go through a trial or whether they think you can settle out of court. Learning what different strategies an attorney might use to deal with your case is valuable.
9. How will we communicate?
You will need to be in close contact with a criminal defense attorney to make sure they are doing their job properly. When you are facing criminal charges, you will understandably be stressed and looking for solutions to your problems. Thus, you will need to be able to get in contact with your lawyer easily.
10. What information will you need from me?
It is likely that there are documents and statements your attorney will need, along with evidence and contact information for people who are important to the case.
11. How long do you think it will take to pursue my case?
The lawyer may not be able to give you an exact time frame, but it is a good idea to be prepared with an estimate. Criminal defense cases typically take a long time due to court delays.
Be Informed
When you ask potential criminal attorneys these 11 questions, you will have a better idea of what they can do for you in terms of your case. Having a qualified criminal attorney at your side gives you a much better chance of success where your case is concerned. You will be able to receive fair treatment and increase your chances of acquittal or a light sentence.
Criminal defense lawyers handle all the aspects of cases surrounding an arrest, a criminal investigation, or criminal charges, all the way to their sentencing and appeals. Some specialize in a specific niche within criminal defense, such as drug defense or DUI defense. Make sure to research thoroughly before committing to your defense to make sure you find one that will be the most qualified to handle your specific case.
