subject: Choosing A Criminal Defense Attorney - The Tips That Count [print this page] If you have been arrested or have a loved one who is facing charges, you need a criminal defense attorney. Don't attempt to represent yourself; you could inadvertently forfeit many of your rights in the justice system. While it isn't the prosecution's intent to tear up the Constitution, it isn't their responsibility to make sure your rights are defended, either. If you represent yourself, it is assumed that you know as much about the law as any lawyer you could have hired. Since you probably don't, you will be at a distinct disadvantage. If you want to stand a chance of being successful in court, here are some tips on finding a lawyer.
Advertising
Advertising is a powerful way for businesses to get their message to the public, and lawyers know this as well as Wal-Mart. But just because a criminal defense attorney spends as much time in front of a camera as he does in front of a judge doesn't mean he's any more qualified to take your case. That's not to say that a high profile lawyer is to be avoided, either. It's simply to remind you that advertising says nothing about the quality of a service, and that includes lawyers as well as anything else. Do your own research.
Keep Your Options Open
If you are facing an impending court date, you may need to hire representation in a hurry. That doesn't mean you have to hire the first guy who came to see you in jail, however. Keep your options open for as long as you can afford to while you do your research. If possible, you may even want to meet with more than one criminal defense attorney. That said, don't drag out your decision for too long. The longer you go without a good lawyer in your employ, the further ahead the prosecution gets.
Fees
Unless you're wealthy beyond all reason, you will probably need to be at least somewhat concerned with the monetary aspect of hiring a criminal defense attorney. This is understandable, but don't forget that you may be facing higher stakes than any financial loss. When compared with spending time behind bars, you have to decide how much it is worth to retain your freedom. That's not to say that even the best lawyer can get you acquitted, but you deserve a fair shot in court.
You deserve the chance to tell your story. Make sure you hire a lawyer who can help you do that.
