Finding a Criminal Attorney to Represent You in Court

If you've been charged with a crime, the last thing you want to do is represent your own defense in court. It has been said again and again that a person who represents themselves has a fool for a client. It is true. Never take it for granted that you will be acquitted. If jury decisions were foregone conclusions, the court system wouldn't waste the money it takes to try someone. If you want to have the best chance possible, you need a good criminal attorney.

Referral

Contact your state's bar association for a referral if you aren't sure where to look for a criminal attorney. While they won't recommend one lawyer over another, they will be able to give you some relevant names in your area and this will help you avoid anyone who has run into disciplinary trouble recently. If this isn't enough, you might want to spend a day in court (granting the possibility that you have your freedom). You can learn a lot by watching a lawyer in action, even if you aren't sure exactly what to look for.

Outcome

If you were caught red-handed, on video, and have already made a confession, trying to push for an acquittal is probably not the best course of action. You need to look for a criminal attorney who has a record of getting his clients the best deal possible. On the other hand, if you plan to present a defense painting yourself as not guilty of the crime, you don't want a lawyer who is more known for making backroom deals. You want someone who will fight for you and represent you in the way you want. A successful client/attorney relationship should have a collaborative feel to it. Don't hire a lawyer you feel isn't listening to your input.

Be Inquisitive

An initial consultation is no time to clam up. Ask as many questions as you can think of, and then ask some more. That's what the time is for. During an initial consultation, a criminal attorney will be deciding whether or not he wants to take your case. But at the same time, you will be deciding whether you want them to. It is a dual interview, so don't be afraid to act your part. Determine whether or not this is someone you can get along with. If they seem overly judgmental of you or overly concerned with the bottom line (money), you may want to look elsewhere.