When you are searching for criminal defense lawyers near me, it can seem like there are endless possibilities. The possibilities can feel endless because there are so many different options and personalities. From specific industry experience to the firm's personality, here are six things to look for when hiring a criminal defense lawyer.
- Experience
Most people might start talking with an attorney with a law degree for all the verbiage in hiring a lawyer. It seems like a no-brainer, right? Sure, many attorneys are great at trial but bad at the paperwork. However, many are great at the paperwork and not so great at the trial. Legal experience is different from practicing experience. The former might be years on a bench, while the latter is more of a trial run. You want to make sure the lawyer has at least some experience working on criminal defense in either case.
2 - Certification with specific organizations
Various organizations have certifications for attorneys. While not an absolute measure of an attorney's abilities, these certifications can often help reassure clients that the attorney has the certification and credentials to do the job.
3 - Character recognition and references
Criminal defense attorneys are often involved in high-stakes cases. The stakes of a criminal case can be high, not just for the lawyer but the client as well. Unfortunately, the profession can sometimes attract unethical people. Before hiring a particular attorney, it is important to know whether they have a good reputation or even a criminal record. Many states and local jurisdictions require criminal background checks on potential attorneys.
4 - Personality and fit
It is essential to find a lawyer who is a good fit for your general personality and work style. You want to make sure that the lawyer is one you are comfortable with. This can be not easy, especially if you are interviewing several candidates. One way to find a quick match is to see if you have a gut feeling about who would be suitable for you.
5 - Research into the firm and legal field
When you hire a criminal defense lawyer, are you also hiring a firm? It might seem like a small detail, but it is essential to understand what kind of firm you are hiring into. Find out what type of experience your new firm has and what type of cases they have worked on. This can help you understand the kind of experience you are getting into and if it is the right fit for you. It can also help you decide if you would like to move to a different firm.
6 - Legal information and resources
There are a lot of online resources on the law and the justice system. This can be helpful when you are hiring a criminal defense lawyer. However, you want to ensure that the information and resources are accurate and up-to-date. You also want to make sure that the resources are well-organized and easy to use. This can help you avoid hiring someone who is simply repackaging old information.
Address: 101 NE 3rd Avenue, Suite 1500, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33301, US
Phone: (954) 947-5000
