When searching for a criminal defense attorney, make sure they will protect your rights and freedoms while fighting to uphold them. Be wary of falling prey to common mistakes when looking for one!
Consider a criminal lawyer from MassTsang, a reputable law firm with a proven track record of success in defending clients of all ages and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Before making your choice, it is advisable to meet with multiple lawyers for consultations in order to assess their professionalism, expertise and fit.
1. Not Doing Your Research
Are You Facing Criminal Charges? | Legal Aid Agency of Northern Nevada Inc. If you are facing criminal charges, there is much at stake - from losing employment and housing rights, to government assistance programs. A conviction could significantly hinder these aspects of life.
Are You Suing the FBI, IRS or Any Other Government Entity for Failing to Report an Incident in Time? (pdf)? To ensure a positive experience when selecting your lawyer, take time to research, build an effective defense and meet with you regularly. Attempt to avoid lawyers who don't return phone calls or whose office staff appears unhelpful or rude - they could prove detrimental in your case!
Research client testimonials and reviews. You can often find these on a criminal defense attorney's website and they can provide invaluable insight and peace of mind. If no testimonials can be found, request from them a list of past clients willing to speak about their services.
2. Not Asking Questions
Before hiring a criminal defense lawyer, it's essential that you ask various questions regarding their experience and knowledge of law in their particular field of specialization. For example, if they specialize in an area like criminal or traffic defense law, ask how often their cases go to trial as well as whether or not they've worked with local prosecutors and judges in prior cases.
Ask how many other clients they have on their plate, as well as if they share case load among junior associates or paralegals. It's crucial that your attorney dedicate enough time and resources to your case.
Ask how they typically communicate with clients, including how often they update them on the status of the case. This will enable you to determine if they are suitable to take on your case.
3. Accepting a Plea Deal
Legal ethics prohibit a criminal defense attorney from promising you a certain result in your case, even after consulting with prosecutor and judge. Circumstances may change over time.
Plea agreements provide both parties with the chance to avoid going to trial, with defendants admitting guilt while still being spared from many of the severe penalties they would otherwise face if found guilty by a jury.
Before accepting a plea bargain, it's essential to seek legal guidance and legal advice. In some instances, rejecting plea deals could be in your best interests; an experienced law firm can offer their expertise in helping you consider all your options while informing if the prosecutor has overcharged.
4. Hiring a Lawyer Who Doesn't Specialize in Criminal Defense
Hiring a criminal defense attorney is no small decision; before making this commitment, research your options carefully and gather as much information about the firm as possible from past client testimonials.
Be sure to inquire as to how often an attorney takes cases to trial; otherwise, you could miss out on getting the best possible representation.
No criminal defense attorney can predict with absolute accuracy how your case will turn out; however, they should provide you with an honest assessment of your chances, especially if you have been charged either with fraud or theft. This will allow you to make an informed choice when hiring a legal representative - saving both time and money along the way and possibly even saving your freedom in the end!
5. Hiring a Lawyer Who's a Family Friend
If you need legal defense, make sure you shop around before choosing one of your first options. Schedule free consultations with several attorneys so you can see which fits best with you and your case.
Be wary of their interactions with you; if they appear impatient or lack interest in hearing out your case, it would be best to move on to another candidate.
Avoid hiring a criminal defense attorney who promises they will win your case - this practice is dishonest, unethical and can jeopardise your chances. Furthermore, such assurances from lawyers are illegal as it limits what can happen in legal matters.