A criminal conviction is serious and potentially life-changing. You stand the risk of losing everything you hold dear—your job, money, and most importantly, your freedom.
Criminal charges cover a wide range of offenses, including DUI, drug crimes, gun charges, robbery, domestic violence, theft, fraud, assault, and murder. While the exact penalties vary from charge to charge, the one thing they all have in common is the need for a strong defense strategy.
When you’re charged with a crime, whether you’re guilty or not, the odds are stacked against you. If you value your freedom you need to act quickly to tilt the odds in your favor. The best way to do that is to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney.
More specifically, hire the best criminal defense attorney you can find. With their help, it may be possible to negotiate a plea bargain for reduced charges or even have the charges against you dropped altogether.
The truth is, all lawyers are not created equal — and having an experienced criminal defense attorney in your corner can greatly increase your chances of securing a favorable outcome to your case.
Tips to Find the Best Criminal Defense Attorney
With so much at stake, how do you go about finding the best criminal defense attorney? Simply follow the steps below to make sure your life is in good hands.
1. Make Sure The Attorney Has A Concentration in Criminal Law
The field of law is extremely broad and there are many different practice areas. From business law to family law and everything in between there isn’t a single lawyer who knows it all.
You wouldn’t go to a podiatrist if you were having chest pain – you’d see a cardiologist. In the same vein, when you’ve been charged with a crime you need an attorney who has a focus in criminal defense.
2. Time is of the Essence: Schedule a Consultation Immediately
When facing criminal charges, time is not on your side. With your next court date or trial date looming just around the corner, you need to get help right away.
One of the most damaging things you can do to your case is to show up to court unprepared.
The quicker you act, the more time your attorney has to properly prepare your defense. Act fast. Look for an attorney who offers free consultations and schedule one now.
3. Ask The Right Questions During Your Initial Consultation
Now that you’ve got your free consultation scheduled what should you ask the attorney to make sure they’re the most qualified for handling your case? Here are a few questions to get you started:
- Is the practice of criminal law your area of concentration?
- Have you handled cases similar to mine?
- Are you capable of taking my case to trial if necessary?
- What do you think are the worst and best-case scenarios for my case?
- Do you think you can help me achieve the best possible outcome?
4. Learn More About The Attorney and Their Success Rate
Talk is cheap; do your due diligence.
Check the attorney’s current status and disciplinary records. You need to know if they’re actually licensed to practice law because, these days, anyone can pose as anything. Also, check the disciplinary records to know if they’ve participated in any unethical or illegal practices that resulted in disciplinary action such as suspension or disbarment.
The next thing to do is review the attorney’s testimonials. Testimonials will give you insight into previous clients’ experiences and outcomes working with the attorney.
Finally, learn about the attorney’s success rate. How often do they get their clients favorable plea bargains, reduced charges, or favorable sentencing? When you are clear on their ability to assist you, you will have confidence in knowing you’ve chosen the best person to help with your case.
5. Understand Their Fees
Let’s face it: The best of anything in life is rarely the cheapest. So, don’t rush to hire a cheap lawyer just to save some money. It may cost you much more than money in the long run.
That said, higher prices don’t always mean better service either. Do your research to make sure you’re getting what you’re paying for. Ask an attorney upfront about their price and fee structure so you have a good understanding of what to expect for your defense budget.
Don’t let cost be a deterrent. A criminal conviction can have a serious, lasting, negative effect on your life. It’s worth paying a fair price for an excellent defense.
It’s important to note that professional lawyers are not allowed to guarantee a win. If a lawyer is eager to take your money and guarantee success, that’s a major red flag.
Bottom Line: Don’t go for cheap; go for quality. You need a smart, experienced, and aggressive attorney who will fight for your rights and freedom.
Get the Help You Need Now — Call Attorney Stephen Stewart
Using the guide above you should be well on your way to making an informed decision about your criminal defense. Hiring the right (or wrong) attorney to represent you is something that can impact the rest of your life.
Stephen Stewart understands how serious criminal charges are and has the experience and expertise to help protect your freedom. Contact us at 215-650-6500 or online for a FREE and confidential consultation today.
