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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I pick the right attorney?
This is often one of the most difficult decisions to make. How do you know the attorney you are considering is going to do a good job for you? You have never seen him or her in action - you are just meeting him or her for the first time.
There are at least a few factors that you can consider which will enable you to assess if the attorney you are considering is the right one for you. First, experience in handling your particular type of case is crucial. Your lawyer should be knowledgeable with court procedures, rules, case law and should also have good trial experience.
When you are charged with a crime, you have only two choices: plead guilty or go to trial. If you choose to go to trial, you need to know your lawyer is comfortable in front of a jury, skilled at cross-examining witnesses, experienced at advocating to the judge, and not afraid to challenge the prosecutor on your behalf. Remember, ours is an adversarial system-these skills only come with years of actual courtroom experience.
You should also discuss possible defenses and strategies in your case with any lawyer you intend to hire. Your lawyer should at least have an idea of an approach to your case almost from the outset. He or she should also have a sense if your situation requires the use of experts or investigators. Remember, it is not up to you to plan how you are going to defend yourself!
Another question you may wish to consider is does your lawyer practice any other type of law? You need to know whether he or she practices Criminal Defense only. I'm sure you've heard the expression, "A Jack of all Trades and a Master of None." It's best that your lawyer practice only one discipline. Laws are constantly being tested and changed. It is extraordinarily difficult to keep up with these changes in one area of law, let alone two or three. The more specialized your attorney is in a particular area, the better for you as the recipient of the benefit of his or her exclusive knowledge. (Certain areas of the country do not allow for an attorney to make a living practicing only a one discipline exclusively, but it is still important that your attorney is well practiced in criminal law).
Finally, you should consider your personal comfort level. Is your attorney taking the time to listen to your situation? Are you comfortable speaking with them? Do they answer your questions? Are they responsive? Do they give you the impression that they are confident in handling your case, and do they make you feel as if they will fight for you? All of these considerations are important in establishing your personal comfort level. As with any situation, you want to feel comfortable with the person who you are working with, especially when that individual has your life in their hands!
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