Being convicted of a felony can be devastating and can impact you for the rest of your life. Whether innocent or guilty, you must seek legal help to protect your rights and ensure the best possible outcome. Although you have the right to represent yourself when defending the charges, this is not recommended.
Finding the right criminal defense lawyer is paramount, but what qualities should you seek? By discovering the information below and seeking a consultation appointment with potential lawyers, you can find the proper counsel to represent you through your trial.
As you begin researching the options for a criminal defense lawyer, it helps to know the qualities you should seek so you do not waste time in your pursuit. There are at least three things you must seek in a lawyer.
1- Experience
Not only do you want to seek a criminal lawyer who has practiced law for many years, but you also want to ensure the lawyer you choose has experience representing clients with the exact charges as you. You should also look for a lawyer with trial experience so you can rest assured your case will be handled professionally.
You can ask the lawyer questions to determine their experience level.
- What is your educational background, and what credentials do you have?
- How many cases have you handled with the same charges as mine?
- How long have you practiced criminal defense law?
- Can I see testimonials from your past clients?
2- Track Record
Select a criminal defense lawyer with a solid track record. Ask the lawyer how many cases they have won versus lost. If the lawyer is unwilling to provide this information or has lost more cases than they have won, you should look elsewhere for legal representation. Because your life is on the line, you should never settle for less than the best.
Ask these questions when consulting with a lawyer.
- What is your trial success rate?
- How many cases have gone to trial?
- How many appeals have you handled?
3- Personality
Your defense lawyer needs to be compassionate and care about what you are going through with your charges. The lawyer must be willing to answer questions and explain things in a way you can understand. The lawyer should be highly motivated to protect your rights and best interest, have the time and energy to devote to your case, and seek the fairest outcome possible.
The right defense lawyer should listen to your needs and ask pertinent questions to understand your case better. By the end of the consultation appointment, the lawyer should have begun creating a defense plan so you can move forward with representation.
Felony convictions can leave a blight on your record for the rest of your life. Taking action now and finding the right defense lawyer will protect your rights and best interests as you defend the charges. It might seem overwhelming when you try to find a lawyer, and the easy option would be to choose the first lawyer you find. However, this attorney will have a large impact on your future so it’s important to take your time to find the criminal defense attorney who can best handle your case.