Criminal Lawyers: 5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring One

Do you know that about 1% of the US population in correctional facilities are wrongful convictions? This rate represents about 20,000 people serving for a mistake they didn’t make. Even worse, they didn’t choose the right set of criminal lawyers to defend them in court.

Whether you retain private attorneys or pro bono criminal lawyers, you want to ensure the person can get you out of trouble. You don’t want to hang your hopes on irresponsible criminal defense lawyers who claim to represent you but don’t even understand your case.

If you’re going to hire the best criminal defense attorney, you must do thorough research. This includes asking a couple of questions to get clarity and know whether you’re about to hire the best person.

Here are the five questions to ask your potential criminal defense lawyers.

      1. How Long Is Your Experience Practicing Law?

You’ll need to go with experience if you want to work with the best criminal defense attorney. Criminal defense requires a seasoned veteran if you’re going to win the case. Ask your attorney about their experience inside and outside courtroom litigations.

Although lawyers have to begin somewhere, you’ll likely have a positive outcome with experienced attorneys. You can contact experienced attorneys at Prentiss Law Office for all your criminal and DUI defense needs.

     2. Do You Handle Similar Cases to Mine?

Having experience is one thing, but achieving a high success rate in specific criminal litigations is different. Criminal lawyers specialize in different areas. You want to know whether your go-to pro bono criminal lawyer handles Federal charges.

If the attorney doesn’t match your case, you can continue searching “criminal lawyers around me.” If you’re facing drug charges, go for an attorney representing clients like you.

     3. How Much Do You Charge Compared to Other Criminal Lawyers?

Legal fees for criminal defense vary. The stronger the charges you’re facing, the more you’ll likely pay. Either way, it’s advisable to discuss the fees with your attorney beforehand.

This eliminates surprises at the end of the case. You’ll also plan the budget in time.

     4. How Long Will You Represent Me in Court?

Even before discussing the case duration, your criminal lawyers should highlight all the possible outcomes. The attorney should tell you whether there are chances of proceeding to appeal. In that case, the case will likely take longer.

Also, your attorney should address whether plea agreements can save you from rigorous court processes. In most cases, prosecutors will drop the charges against you after working on a good plea agreement.

     5. Can I Reach Out to You Anytime?

Communication with your attorney is critical when facing criminal charges. Whether you’re behind bars or out on bond, you should reach your lawyer at all times. If a lawyer doesn’t offer open communication lines, they’ll likely not help with your case either.

Get the Best Criminal Lawyer

Who are the best criminal lawyers near me? If you search this question on the internet, you’ll get various recommendations for Toronto Criminal Lawyer.

Ask the above questions to determine whether the firm can handle and win your case. This applies to pro bono criminal lawyers too.

Check our website for more articles on dealing with criminal defense lawyers.