Every legal professional is different, so if you are ever in a position where you need to hire one, the process can be intimidating if you do not know exactly what to look for. If charges have been filed against you, the stakes are high, and you should take a few things into consideration before choosing an attorney to work with.
Things Everyone Should Know Before Hiring a Criminal Attorney
The process of finding a good defense attorney can be confusing and overwhelming, especially if you have never dealt with the criminal justice system before. Not only is the procedure expensive, but it is also a stressful experience because your freedom might be on the line. Here are some things everyone should take into consideration when selecting a good attorney.
Let Your Conscience be Your Guide
Always trust your instincts about the attorney; if the advice that’s being given sounds too good to be true, it most likely is. A good attorney will never offer false hope or a guaranteed outcome. What is your conscience telling you about the person? Are they trustworthy and do they make you feel comfortable, or do you feel like you are being treated like just another case number? Ask them questions that can help you identify if they are the right fit, such as what made them decide to become a criminal attorney in the first place or where they went to college.
Look for Hidden Messages
No one likes dealing with attorneys who act more successful than they truly are or who is not respectful. This could be a clear sign to move on and choose an attorney who makes you feel valued and important. It might be easy to distinguish whether an attorney is being too flashy just to impress you, but also search for hidden messages they’re conveying through their mannerisms.
Always Get it in Writing
Finally, after you have identified a criminal attorney you feel comfortable with, always get a written contract. The contract should detail how much money you will put down in order to retain services as well as how much the entire case will cost.