Criminal charges are not something to take lightly, even if they are associated with a minor offense, such as petty theft or public intoxication. Incrimination for a misdemeanor is not going to land you in prison, but other legal penalties apply and your reputation is tarnished. You will earn a criminal record, which has long-lasting effects on a person’s personal and professional life. If you hope to clear your name or maintain a clean record, working with a reputed criminal defense law firm is the answer.
Criminal Defense Attorney in Elizabethtown, KY, mentions ten key points to consider before you hire a law firm to fight your case:
1. Who is going to work on your case?
You should know in advance whether you’ll be interacting with a single person or a team. A team of attorneys may be suited if your case is complicated and has very high stakes; the input of multiple qualified personnel may be necessary. However, you don’t want to get comfortable with one lawyer and then be assigned someone completely unfamiliar on an important hearing. When working with a single attorney, ensure that they have the time and capacity to handle your case. Work with a firm that is consistent and resourceful.
2.The First Impression
First impressions matter the most, so weigh the pros and cons of your first meeting/interaction with the law firm. For instance, were they punctual if they scheduled a time to see you? Did they look and come across as strictly professional? How did you feel in their presence? You wouldn’t want to sign a contract with someone who made you feel insignificant or insecure on the first encounter. If you were in any way disappointed on the first meeting, you cannot expect any better on the next.
3.Hospitality and Responsiveness
You need a law firm who treats you with respect and always has your back. If they appear to be too busy or take forever to return your calls, it shall not be wise to rely on them. Hire someone who shows genuine interest in your case and is quick to follow up. You want an attorney who is able to sympathize with you and is prepared to defend you, regardless of how the case makes you look.
4.Relevant Experience
The best firm to work with is the one that has adequate experience solving cases similar to yours. For example, if you want to defend yourself against allegations of domestic violence, you won’t get the best results if you hire a firm that focuses on DUI defense. The track record and success rate of the law firm you choose must speak for itself.
5.Local Connections
Criminal statutes vary from state to state, which is why it is imperative that your legal representative is well versed in local laws. Your chances to beat the charges are better if your attorney has ample experience working in your state or county. This implies that they are accustomed to the local judiciary and prosecutors. Their acquaintance with prominent members in law enforcement will work in your favor. They would be well aware of the opponent’s strengths and weakness, thereby having no doubt about what they are dealing with.
6. Reviews from Past Clients
The reviews of real clients the firm has served in the past can provide valuable intel. Apart from reading reviews on the firm’s websites, look up private discussion boards and forums online. If possible, reach out to a few and learn more about their experience.
7. Online Rankings
You will find a couple of distinguished sites that display actual rankings and ratings for different law firms. Do your homework on criminal law firms near you before making up your mind. Make sure to check out Google reviews and ratings for comparison. If there’s a mix of good and bad ratings for a firm, you may have to read between the lines.
8.What are they promising?
Some law firms promise a definite outcome to clients for luring them in. You need to understand that the result of a case cannot be predicted beforehand. Any law firm that promises you the best case scenario is destined to bring disappointment. It’s better to be prepared for the worst rather than having your hopes up for nothing. Choose a legal representative who is honest with you, even if what they say is not exactly what you want to hear at that point.
9.The Fee Structure
There is no point in hiring a law firm you cannot afford. Agencies that are vague about their fee structure are likely to charge you a lot more than you would expect; enquire about all implied and hidden charges. Moreover, remember that that the most expensive firm is not necessarily the best and the cheapest one might lack in quality services.
10. People Skills
The attorney or attorneys that take your case should demonstrate excellent people skills. Do they have what it takes to confront the prosecution and win over an audience? Do you feel relaxed, intrigued, and hopeful talking to them? You want to work with someone who can answer all your questions and give sound advice. You need a lawyer who knows their way around words and cannot be rendered speechless.
