Choosing A Good Criminal Defense Attorney

The unthinkable has happened and you have been charged with a crime: now what? Public defenders are available to give legal assistance to those who cannot afford to hire a private attorney, of course. Everyone is entitled to due process under the law regardless of an ability to pay. But if you want to hire a good criminal defense attorney, here's what you should look for.

-- First, you should narrow a list of candidates down to about five or so. How do you make a list of attorneys to begin with? You can start by using a search engine to find defense attorneys who live and work in your particular city and state.

If by chance there aren't any listed for right where you live, try the next nearest area. For example, if you live in rural southern Nevada, you'll probably want to look for lawyers in Las Vegas. You may also check the yellow pages or ask family and friends who have had need of a defense attorney for advice and referrals.

-- Once you have your list of possible candidates, it's time to get down to the particulars. A lawyer will almost always list his areas of expertise right on his website: for example, if you have been charged with a sexual crime, you'll want someone who has handled a lot of cases in that particular area. One who deals almost exclusively in theft cases may not be as much help to you. The website should be informational and give you facts about the firm that should answer your most basic questions.

-- While you are on the internet, use a search engine to look for legal articles by or court records concerning the lawyers you are considering. One of the lawyers may stand out from the rest in this regard: you want one you can trust who has a proven track record and is very involved and knowledgeable in his field.

-- The state bar association's website will be able to tell you which attorneys on your list are in good standing with the courts in your area. Believe it or not, there are lawyers out there who are practicing but shouldn't be.

-- Good communication between attorney and client is absolutely essential. If English is your second language, you may feel more comfortable hiring someone who can speak Spanish or whatever tongue you prefer.

-- You must take the time to visit with and interview the lawyers on your list that you feel most comfortable with. There's absolutely no way of knowing if you would have a compatible and workable relationship unless you meet face to face. Many attorneys will consult with you at no charge for up to an hour. You will be spending a lot of time in that office, so make sure that you like the firm's staff as well and that they appear professional and polished.

When your freedom is on the line, you should take the time to follow every step in choosing the right criminal defense attorney to handle your case. It will be well worth it.

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