What to Look For In a Criminal Defense Lawyer

When you have been charged with a crime, choosing a criminal defense lawyer is one of the most important decisions you will make. You will spend considerable time with your attorney, and who you choose could significantly impact the outcome of your case.

It’s no exaggeration to say that choosing a criminal defense lawyer can mean the difference between a guilty or not guilty verdict, whether you will face fines and penalties, go to jail, or be set free. With so much on the line, we’ve outlined the top 6 considerations when choosing representation for your criminal case.

Qualifications and Experience

When considering what to look for in a criminal defense lawyer, begin by evaluating the lawyer’s qualifications and experience. Before scheduling a meeting, research the lawyer online and look for information about their background, experience, and qualifications.

Any attorney you choose will have completed at least three years of law school and should be licensed to practice law in North Carolina. If you have been charged with a crime, you should choose a lawyer who specializes in criminal defense. An experienced defense lawyer will understand criminal procedure and be an expert at legal research and the persuasive writing necessary to advocate for a not guilty verdict or to minimize the severity of any penalties that might be imposed.

Personal Attention

Being charged with a crime is stressful, and you will likely have questions. You are paying your hard-earned money for a lawyer to represent you and answer your questions. Ask about the best way to communicate with them and what to do when they are out of the office, in court, or meeting with other clients.

Trust and Compatibility

You will need to communicate with your lawyer, potentially about sensitive, emotional, or embarrassing matters. The attorney-client relationship is built on trust, and you must be confident that your lawyer will protect your interests. You need to choose a lawyer you are comfortable spending time with and who you believe will fight to protect you and your rights.

Local Connections

Every court has unique nuances. Choose a criminal defense lawyer who has practiced in the court where your case will be heard and, ideally, one who has previously appeared before the judge who will hear your case. An attorney with local connections will be able to relate to local judges and prosecutors, understand the inner workings of the local courthouse, and know who to call to get things done.

Cost

Most criminal defense lawyers handle criminal cases on either an hourly rate or a flat fee. Cost, of course, will be a factor when you consider what to look for in a criminal defense lawyer. Ask how much the lawyer would charge to represent you. Be sure you understand whether you are being charged a flat rate or an hourly fee, and ask what costs you will be responsible for in addition to the lawyer’s fee. For example, you may need to pay for court costs, costs of the investigation, expert witness fees, and other case expenses.

Remember the adage, “You get what you pay for.” The cheapest lawyer often isn’t the best lawyer. An experienced lawyer who charges a larger fee or a higher hourly rate may be able to resolve a case more quickly or on more favorable terms than a younger, less experienced lawyer.

Strategy

No criminal defense lawyer can guarantee a result, and your lawyer’s evaluation of your case may evolve as they learn more about it. But an experienced criminal defense lawyer should be able to provide an overview of the process, explain what they expect in your case, and describe the basic strategy they would use for someone in a situation like yours.

Your attorney should have a well-thought-out approach to fighting the criminal charges and be able to explain their plan. They should also take the time to listen to your side of the story and develop a defense that is customized to you and your unique situation.

Stowe Law Firm, PLLC: Client-Centered Criminal Defense in NC

Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Spend time researching different lawyers, and don’t be afraid to ask the pressing questions to find the answer to what to look for in a criminal defense lawyer. Fighting a criminal charge should not be left to chance. The outcome of your case will affect your future, and you need an excellent criminal defense lawyer on your side.

At Stowe Law Firm, PLLC, we understand how a criminal charge can impact your life. We will fight for your freedom, ensure you are treated fairly, and help you evaluate your case to make the best decision possible under the circumstances.

Led by principal attorney Ryan Stowe, Stowe Law Firm is based in Salisbury, NC, and proudly serves people facing criminal charges in Cabarrus, Davidson, Iredell, Rowan, Davie, and Stanly Counties. Our client-focused approach ensures we will meet your unique and individual needs.

To learn more, contact us today to schedule a free, confidential, no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation. Call 704-216-1950, email info@stowelawfirmnc.com, or complete the online contact form.