When facing criminal charges, whether that be for charges ranging from a misdemeanor or felony in State or Federal Court, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is selecting the right criminal defense attorney. This decision can and will greatly impact the outcome of your case, so it’s essential to choose wisely. With a myriad of legal professionals to choose from, it can be overwhelming to make the right choice. This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to choose a criminal defense attorney who can effectively advocate for your constitutional rights and interests.
Assess Their Expertise
The first and foremost consideration when choosing a criminal defense attorney is their expertise in handling cases similar to yours. Criminal law is a diverse field, encompassing a wide range of offenses, from DUI offenses to white-collar crimes and violent felony offenses from Murder to Armed Robbery. Ensure the attorney you select has experience defending clients facing charges similar to yours. Their track record in handling cases with a favorable outcome is a testament to their competence.
· Attorney Jones has over 20 years of experience and has conducted in excess of 300 jury trials.
Verify Credentials
Before entrusting your case to an attorney, make sure they are licensed to practice law in your jurisdiction. Check their credentials, including their bar association membership and any disciplinary history. You can typically find this information on state bar association websites or by contacting the association directly. How long have they been practicing criminal defense law? Have they been nominated for special awards in their field?
· Jones Law Firm has received several awards from The Wisconsin Law Journal, Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, The Shepard Express and The National Association of Trial Lawyers.
Seek Recommendations
Word of mouth can be a valuable resource when searching for a criminal defense attorney. Ask friends, family, fellow attorneys or colleagues if they can recommend a lawyer, they’ve had a positive experience with. Additionally, you can consult online reviews and testimonials to get a sense of an attorney’s reputation and client satisfaction.
· Jones Law Firm operates almost exclusively on referrals and appointments from criminal justice institutions.
Evaluate Communication Skills
Effective communication is essential between you and your attorney. You should feel comfortable discussing your case, asking questions, and receiving clear, understandable answers. Assess their ability to explain complex legal concepts in a way that you can comprehend. A lawyer who listens to your concerns and communicates effectively can better represent your interests when discussing the case with the prosecutor, and if the case isn’t settled, the Judge and Jury.
· Attorney Jones is a four-time winner of the Advocates Prize awarded by the Wisconsin Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, illustrating his effective communication skills with judges and juries.
Discuss Fees and Payment Plans
Understanding the cost of legal representation is crucial. Be transparent about your budget and discuss fees with the attorney. Most criminal lawyers charge a flat fee; however, others bill hourly depending on the case. Ensure you have a clear understanding of how the attorney charges for their services, including any additional expenses that may arise during your case, such as private investigation expenses. More experienced lawyers are going to be more expensive.
· Jones Law Firm recognizes that hiring an attorney is expensive, so we try to work with clients and their budgets.
Consider Local Knowledge
Choose an attorney who is familiar with the local legal system and practices. Local knowledge can be advantageous when negotiating with prosecutors, understanding the local judges’ tendencies, and navigating the intricacies of local court rules and procedures. Is your case in Hennepin County? Do you want an attorney who offices downtown Minneapolis near the Courthouse who spends most of their time dealing with the Hennepin County Courthouse? These are questions that you should consider and discuss with your attorney.
· Attorney Jones has represented thousands of clients in more than a dozen Wisconsin Counties throughout Wisconsin.
Selecting the right criminal defense attorney is a critical step in securing the best possible outcome for your case. The attorney will make a difference in the outcome of your case. Take your time to research and interview potential candidates, considering their expertise, communication skills, and local knowledge. By following these guidelines, you can make an informed decision and give yourself the best chance at a successful defense. Remember, the right attorney can make a world of difference in how you move on from this difficult experience.
Contact us today to set up a free consultation. Please contact us by text or phone at (414) 775-7445 or email at laura@jlfwisconsin.com anytime.
*Any articles in the Libra or posted by Jones Law Firm LLC are not legal advice for a particular client or situation. Further no attorney-client relationship is intended or created with this post.*
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