Hiring an Experienced Attorney

Hiring a criminal defense lawyer is one of the toughest decisions a person can make. After all, your very freedom lies in your lawyer’s hands. It is important to hire a knowledgeable attorney who has had experience with cases similar to yours.

If you have been accused of a crime, no matter how small, it is in your best interest to consult with an experienced defense attorney. Even if you do not ultimately hire the attorney, a consultation will help you understand the nature of the charges, the defenses that may be used, and the penalties you face if convicted.

For defendants who have been charged with a serious crime, it is important to have a competent legal representative on his or her side to negotiate a plea bargain or to prepare for the trial.

There are several ways to find a criminal defense lawyer. A referral is a good place to start. Your friends, family, or even a public defender’s office may be able to suggest an experienced criminal lawyer.

Every state has professional organizations for criminal defense lawyers. Contact the organization in your area to see if they offer referral services. There are also several online directories that include defense attorneys.

After finding several attorneys, you should contact them to schedule a case consultation (ask if they provide free consultations or if you will be charged). During the consultation, ask about the attorney’s general knowledge and experience in cases like yours.

It is important that you feel comfortable with your attorney. If you do not feel comfortable with an attorney who provides you with a consultation, you are under no obligation to hire the attorney.

The cost of a defense attorney depends on many factors, such as the nature of the charges or the jurisdiction. The more complex the case, the more an attorney will require for his or her retainer. The retainer fee may also be greater if the charges are more serious.

For a misdemeanor case, it is not uncommon for a defense lawyer to request several thousand dollars as a retainer. For a felony case, the retainer may start at $5,000, while a more serious crime may need a retainer starting at $25,000. If the attorney foresees using an expert witness, this will also increase the retainer.