Do you have a good criminal defense lawyer in your rolodex? If you’re like many, the answer’s probably no. But if you have the contact details of a good doctor, dentist, optometrist, HVAC services company, and more, it makes sense to know who to call when in legal hot water.
One source says combined filings for civil cases and criminal defendants in U.S. district courts climbed 18% to 405,878 in 2023. While civil case filings came in at 339,731 — up 24% — criminal defendants filings came in at 66,147 — down 3%. You may know a civil or criminal defendant.
While many people successfully avoid criminal charges, others get in trouble with the long arm of the law for offenses that include driving under the influence, driving while impaired, threats, assault, and more.
One thing to remember is the importance of hiring the best criminal defense attorney you can afford if facing charges. Since picking the first one you find in print or online is like rolling dice and hoping for the best, here are five specific things to seek in a legal professional worth retaining.
1. Criminal Law Experience
While it might seem obvious to find a lawyer with criminal law experience, it’s hard to overstate the importance of hiring a legal professional with an extensive criminal law background.
Some lawyers dabble in multiple areas of the law. But when so much is at stake, you need a criminal defense lawyer specializing in criminal law. During your research stage, find criminal defense attorneys who’ve helped clients in your shoes. That’s one way to potentially tip the balance of justice in your favor so you can move on with your life.
2. Commanding Courtroom Presence
It’s also important to find a criminal defense lawyer with a commanding courtroom presence — especially where there’s a jury trial.
A good legal representative should exude confidence, know how to present evidence and testimony compellingly, and successfully persuade the judge and jury.
3. Good Reviews
Nothing beats a good reputation. One way to find a service provider you can count on is to see how they’ve treated other clients in the past. That’s one reason to check out online reviews from people who’ve retained the services of criminal defense lawyers.
You’ll want to know how lawyers on your shortlist of candidates are regarded by customers, how they operate under pressure, how well they think on their feet, how effectively they communicate in and out of the courtroom, and more.
While you shouldn’t make decisions solely based on online reviews, these reviews can help.
In addition to checking out online reviews, you should ask people you know for recommendations. You might have a family member, neighbor, fellow gym member, friend, or co-worker who previously had to retain the services of a criminal defense attorney.
Getting recommendations and feedback directly from the mouths of people you know and trust can help you find the right lawyer.
4. Strong Negotiation Skills
Solid negotiation skills are also important to secure a good legal outcome. You need a criminal defense attorney with the negotiation skills necessary during settlement or plea deal talks.
Don’t make the mistake of assuming that any lawyer can get the job done. Finding one with a track record for negotiating the best outcomes for clients is in your best interests since it can translate into anything from lesser charges to outright case dismissal.
5. Transparent Fee Structure
A good service provider will be transparent about fees. You’ll want a criminal defense lawyer who is upfront about payment since you shouldn’t have to drag the answer out of them. You need someone to explain how much they charge and when payment is due.
Finding the right lawyer when you’re in trouble is essential. But you can’t just pick the first person you see in a directory. It takes some work to find a reputable service provider. Keep these tips in mind to help you retain the right criminal defense lawyer.
