How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you are in need of a criminal defense lawyer, how do you decide who to retain? In Charleston, you have an abundance of attorneys to choose from. But how do you know if you are choosing the right criminal defense lawyer for you? Below are some helpful tips to assist you with your decision:
Determine What Type of Defense Attorney You Need
When you are facing a criminal charge, it’s important to know what kind of criminal defense lawyer you need — if you are being accused of state offense, hire a criminal defense lawyer who specializes in state law, and if you are being accused of a federal offense, hire one who specializes in federal law.
Make Sure The Attorney Has Experience In The Defense You Need
Once you understand what type of criminal defense lawyer you need, you will need to make sure he or she has experience handling cases similar to yours. It is important to note that not all criminal defense lawyers practice in the same areas of law. If an attorney says they handle cases such as yours, you will still want to make sure that they are skilled at the practice. You will need to look at their website, look for reviews and ask your support group, your friends and family members, for their input. Choosing a criminal defense attorney is an extremely important decision — choosing the wrong one could change your life forever.
What Qualities Do You Want Your Criminal Defense Lawyer To Embody
Before making a final decision concerning representation, decide what you want out of an attorney. Every criminal defense lawyer is different – some may be more aggressive, while others may be a bit more reserved. Do you want your defense attorney to lead you or guide you? While defense lawyers are experts in the law, your choice needs to be based on the person — not just the lawyer. If the approach to your case is one your are uncomfortable with, they may not be the best lawyer to represent you.
Meet The Attorney
Once your research is complete, you should have a more defined idea of what you are looking for, and a few names of attorneys in your area. Now comes the most important part; meet your potential criminal defense lawyer. Just because an attorney looks great on paper, meeting them may change your mind completely. A gut-reaction can often be the most telling. Even if you can set up an in-person meeting, a telephone call may help you decide.