Are you going through a legal issue in which you are charged with criminal charges? Don’t worry because we’re here to help you.
Criminal cases are a lot more tricky than civil litigation suits. In fact, hiring a criminal lawyer is quite intimidating compared to booking the services of a civil lawyer.
In this article, you’ll know everything about hiring a criminal lawyer. So, let’s begin!
When should you hire a criminal lawyer?
There is not a specific time to hire a criminal lawyer. You should do it soon if you have been accused in a criminal case. There are also some specific situations when you need to have a lawyer with you.
For example, if you get arrested due to a false crime charge, hiring a lawyer is a must at that time. A lawyer can be a true friend during this difficult time as they can help you understand your rights, and advocate for them to get you the justice you deserve.
Being proactive is almost a necessity if you get to know that you are being investigated for a crime. Having a lawyer in the loop with everything you are hearing related to the investigation will protect your interests in case of a future legal situation.
Qualities to look for in such lawyers
Some of the qualities which are a must in a criminal lawyer are as follows:-
Experience
Look for a lawyer who has plenty of experience in the criminal law field. They should have represented plenty of clients in the past and must have won most of the cases with a positive winning percentage.
Strategic thinking
A good criminal lawyer can make an alright strategy but a great lawyer will think strategically regarding the whole case. They will be able to anticipate the prosecution’s argument in advance and prepare a counter-defence strategy which will prove you not guilty.
The art of negotiation
Most of the criminal cases get solved with plea bargains or astute negotiations with the prosecution. Always look for a lawyer who has amazing negotiation skills.
Responsiveness
Your lawyer needs to be available when you need them regarding your case and respond when you reach out to them. So, choose someone who can answer your questions regarding the case.
Compassion
When you are going through a criminal case, the stress and high emotions can take a toll on you. Have a lawyer by your side who is compassionate and supportive throughout the duration of the case.
- Trustworthiness
Your life can flip upside down if you get punished for the criminal charges by the court. So, make sure that the lawyer you opt for is trustworthy.
Courtroom presence
Your lawyer should have a tough presence in the courtroom. They need to advocate for your rights to the judge and the jury with all their expertise.
Reputation
Do proper research to find out what past clients have got to say about the lawyer you’ve hired. For this purpose, check out the reviews and testimonials given to them.
Read: Revising Justice: Unlocking Fairness Through Oklahoma Sentence Modification
Steps to find the most appropriate criminal lawyer
Here’s how you can find a great criminal lawyer to represent you in the court:-
- Look for criminal lawyers on online platforms, check their websites, and read about the level of their services.
- Ask people you know to get a recommendation for a good criminal lawyer.
- Make sure the lawyers you are finalizing have a proper license in your jurisdiction and a good reputation in front of the bar association.
- Take advantage of free consultations and ask them relevant questions. Along with this, know about their experience, method to handle cases, and fees as well.
- Find out which types of cases they’ve dealt with. Ask them about their winning percentage and how they plan to defend you in your case.
- Analyze how your lawyer has communicated with you throughout the consultation.
- Understand the fee structure of the lawyer before you hire them.
- Trust your instincts and choose a criminal lawyer accordingly.
Conclusion
Facing criminal charges can be challenging, but hiring the right criminal or civil lawyer can be of immense help. Just look for a lawyer who has the right qualities that a criminal lawyer must possess. Don’t forget to follow a step-by-step approach to hire the finest criminal lawyer.
Author’s Bio
Hi, I’m Asher Smith, a passionate blogger who loves to explore and write amazing insights on a particular topic. I love to explore areas like human rights, consumer behavior, and some legal aspects like litigation, civil cases, and I consult with civil law lawyers for detailed insights. I hope you guys enjoy my readings.
