If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation for a crime, it is important to choose a criminal defense attorney. It’s quite an important decision to find the right person who can help you protect your rights and make sure that you have the best possible defense.
The right lawyer can mean the difference between a guilty verdict and an acquittal. Here are seven important steps to choosing a criminal defense attorney:
1) Check Responsiveness for a Phone Consultation
One of the most important steps in choosing a criminal defense attorney is to check responsiveness for a phone consultation. If you are unable to get in touch with an attorney or if they are not responsive to your calls, it is likely that they will not be responsive to your case in the future either.
2) Gauge Knowledge of Criminal Charges Involved
The ideal attorney should be familiar with the criminal charges you are facing. When you call for your initial consultation, ask your lawyer questions about the charges and see how they respond. If they seem to be unsure or if they do not have a firm understanding of the charges, you may want to consider finding another lawyer.
3) Ask about Their Experience
In addition to being familiar with the criminal charges you are facing, it is also essential that your attorney has previous experience with these charges. Many lawyers may have some experience with criminal law, but if they are not familiar with the charges you are facing, you may want to consider finding a lawyer who is.
4) Know Their Practice Location
When facing criminal charges, it’s important that you have a lawyer who is familiar with the court system where your specific case will be heard. If your case is heard in Cook County, you will need to find a lawyer who practices there. If your case is heard in a different county in Illinois, you will need to find a lawyer who practices in that county.
5) Consider Courtroom Confidence
When facing criminal charges, it’s important that you have a lawyer who is confident in the courtroom. Although this may seem like a minor factor, it is still rather important to consider. If your lawyer is not confident in the courtroom, they may not be able to effectively defend your charge.
6) Have the Attorney’s Fees Clarified
When you are hiring a criminal defense lawyer, you need to have the attorney’s fees clarified. After all, it’s a must to know how much you will be paying your lawyer for their services and what you will be paying for.
7) Run an Interview and Coordinate for Your Case
Holding an interview can help you get a feel for how a criminal defense attorney will work and how they communicate. Afterward, coordinate with your lawyer to get a feel for how they work and how they will handle your case.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are ever in the position of needing a criminal defense attorney, there are seven important steps you should take to ensure you choose the best possible representation. Follow the guide above to ensure that you hire someone reliable.
Looking for the best criminal defense lawyer in Chicago? Goldman & Associates are one of the leading criminal and DUI defense law firms in Chicago and the surrounding areas. Contact us now!
