You’ll know the best criminal defense lawyer by the number of successful cases they have defended. It’s also important to do a bit of research before choosing a defense lawyer for your particular legal needs.
Not all lawyers have the pedigree of Clarence Darrow, Johnnie Cochran, F. Lee Bailey or Gerry Spence. What many criminal defense lawyers do have in common though is years of legal defense experience and a track record of trial success.
Before making a decision on a legal professional, there are several factors to consider.
These include:
- What are the precise criminal charges?
- Is the charge a felony or misdemeanor?
- Are you aware of possible punishment for the crime?
These are just a few of the issues to consider before speaking to a lawyer. It will be necessary to communicate these details to the lawyer you choose.
Remember that a criminal defense lawyer doesn’t need to know if you are guilty or not. The job of a criminal defense lawyer is to present a case before a judge and jury that focuses entirely on defense.
Making the choice
When the accused needs the best criminal defense lawyer, it is a good idea to ask for referrals from family members. However, very often employers and business associates can make recommendations based on their knowledge of those practicing this type of law in their region.
In most cases a criminal defense lawyer’s credentials are readily available. However, it is important that the lawyer you choose is one who is licensed to practice in your state.
The lawyers you contact will advise you of any out of state reciprocity they hold with their legal licensing. If they are unavailable to practice in an out of state criminal defense, it’s wise to ask if the lawyer can recommend the best lawyer for an out of state trial.
When you choose the best criminal defense lawyer in your state, you have the advantage of assurance your legal case is being handled by an expert. Choose a lawyer who has actual trial experience in the particular type of criminal litigation pertinent to the formal criminal charges.
With some legal teams, trial experience may be minimal. Those areas in which the team lacks experience cases are referred to outsourced lawyers with more specific experience.
Trial or out-of-court settlement?
There are certain aspects of hiring the best criminal defense lawyer that will provide optimal confidence in their skills and experience.
When you feel confident you’ve chosen the best lawyer for your needs, it is reassuring to know you can rely entirely on their judgment with regard to whether your case should go to trial or be settled out of court.
Only the best criminal defense lawyer will know what benefits their client most. The best lawyers offer free consultations and terms of legal assistance are provided during the initial consultation.