5 Tactics for Finding a Reputable Criminal Defense Lawyer
No matter what criminal charge you are facing, your first step is to find an excellent lawyer who can act on your behalf and help navigate your case. Not all criminal defense lawyers are created the same, so taking the time to research into the best defense attorneys in your area will make sure that you’re represented in the best light.
While the process of searching for a criminal defense lawyer can be daunting, especially when handling the repercussions of your criminal charge, it’s vital that you know what to look out for.
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Here are 5 tactics to help you seek out a reputable criminal defense lawyer in your area
Look for a Responsive Lawyer
If you have a criminal charge behind you, time is of the essence. The longer you take to find a criminal defense attorney, the less chance you have of winning your case. When contacting a lawyer, they need to respond straight away. Their legal team should arrange a meeting with you within 24 hours, which can be a good opportunity to learn about their services and check whether they have the expertise to help.
The Right Lawyer Specializes in Criminal Law
While the lawyer you pick doesn’t have to exclusively practice criminal law, they should at least specialize in it. If you don’t find anything on their website about criminal law, chances are they’re not the right fit for your case and needs. The Law Offices of Josh Johnson in Minnesota do specialize in criminal law and may be able to help you with your situation.
Check Reputable Sources
You can learn a great deal when researching lawyers on the internet. While some sources will be reputable, there are others who aren’t, so being on your guard and ensuring you pick a reputable criminal defense lawyer is key. The last thing you want is to pick a lawyer who has a formal discipline on their record, so checking the State Bar of Minnesota should be your first port of call. Some websites like Facebook don’t allow lawyers to remove bad reviews, so they can be a good place to look to see what past clients have said about their services.
Ask for Referrals
One of the best tactics to find a suitable criminal defense lawyer is by asking your family and friends whether they know any good attorneys in your area. Those who have first-hand knowledge of how a lawyer operates will give you a better insight into whether they’re worth pursuing.
Gauge Their Enthusiasm
When going for your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, you should know within a matter of minutes whether they’re right for your case. Your lawyer needs to be passionate about helping you, have excellent communication skills and support you from start to finish. Every second counts, so your lawyer needs to understand time management and adhere to regulations and deadlines of the court.
When facing criminal charges (whether you believe you’re at fault or not), the entire process can be exhausting and emotionally draining. To strengthen your case, using all the tactics above can help you find a reputable criminal defense lawyer who will do everything in their power to win your case.
