Last Updated on September 13, 2024
Being charged by the police is difficult for both the accused and their family. At such a difficult time you need to protect your interests and find a good criminal defense lawyer who can provide you with up to date information and ensure that you are treated fairly.
There are many law firms all saying they are the best, and here are a few tips to help you find the best criminal defense lawyer for your situation.
Check the Credentials and Experience
When you are looking for criminal lawyers you need to know that they have the qualifications, experience, and skill you require. They need to be creative thinkers who will deal with situations such as your Criminal Charter rights have been infringed.
They will understand what evidence is inadmissible and will be able to make the most of the tiniest details that are in your favor.
Never be afraid to ask to see their credentials, or to chat to them about previous cases they have handled. You should not expect them to mention names, but they should still be able to supply you with details of the case experience they have.
Ensure They are Easily Accessible
When a criminal case is in motion, you could need urgent support from your lawyer. They need to be easily accessible to be able to provide that support.
Of course, if they are any good, they will have several clients they are dealing with, but they will also understand that they may have to find the time to deal with your concerns.
If the charges are serious, your liberty could be at stake and this can have devastating effects on your life even if you are found not guilty.
Much of this is down to the individual. Whatever law firm you choose, you need to know who the lawyer is that will be dealing with your case. You need to know that if they are off because of sickness, for example, you will still get the help and advice you may need.
Can You Afford the Fees?
You will be going through enough stress without having to worry about paying the lawyers fees. The cost will depend on how serious the charges are and how much time is spent defending you.
However, there are schemes to get help with the fees, but these are income-related. If you do not qualify for assistance, speak with your chosen lawyer before they start any of the work, as some of them will enter into a payment plan to help you cope with their costs.
Do they have a Specialist Area?
Even with criminal defense, there are areas of specialty and you need to know that the lawyer you choose has experience in your type of case. They could be experienced in traffic violations, different drug-related crimes, assault, burglary and any number of other criminal offenses.
You may need them to make negotiations with the prosecution, file a plea for bail, try and get a reduction on a sentence or help to eradicate your record after a conviction is spent. All of these things need someone with the experience to know exactly what to do.
Look at Their Team
A good criminal defense lawyer will have a team around them that is hard-working and will give the help needed to prepare your case. A lot of research and effort can go into putting a defense together and if they have a strong team around them, it will be a simpler task.
You need to remember that from the moment you are charged, the presumption of innocence comes into play. It is up to the prosecution lawyers to prove you are guilty and that is a burden on their shoulders. Having a good defense lawyer on your side will make their job a lot harder.
