Choosing the Right Criminal Defense Lawyer

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If you’re facing criminal charges, you’re going to need an attorney. However, choosing the right criminal defense lawyer is critical to successfully defending yourself in court. Whether you’ve faced legal proceedings before or this is the first time you’ve been charged with an offence, it’s important to understand how the process works and what to look for in a criminal defense lawyer.

Dealing with a criminal charge can be stressful and overwhelming, so it might be tempting to hire the first lawyer you can find. However, it’s worth taking the time to find a criminal defense attorney who can provide the help you really need. When you’re selecting an attorney to represent you, remember to consider the following factors:

1. Experience

The more experience an attorney has, the more likely they are to be able to defend you successfully. When consulting with criminal defense lawyers, be sure to ask how many similar cases they’ve argued and, crucially, how many defendants they’ve had acquitted.

2. Specialism

Criminal law is extensive and includes hundreds of different types of offences. When you’re choosing a Minneapolis Criminal Defense Attorney, you’ll want to ensure that they specialize in the particular type of offence you’ve been charged with. You won’t want a lawyer who works primarily on murder cases to represent you on a DWI charge, for example, and vice versa.

3. Dismissals

Before you retain a criminal defense lawyer, ask how they plan to get your charges dismissed or reduced. Although it isn’t always possible for this to be achieved, your lawyer should be willing to examine the evidence against you and consider whether there is an argument for them to be reduced or dismissed.

4. Empathy

Being charged with any type of criminal offence can be devastating. The process of awaiting trial and going to court is stressful and nerve-wracking, so you’ll want an attorney who is empathetic. Your lawyer should always take the time to explain the process to you and answer any questions you have. By choosing an attorney who shows understanding, you’ll feel more able to confide in them and rely on them for professional support.

5. Reputation

With the internet, it’s easy to find reputable criminal defense attorneys in your area. If you’re on bail awaiting trial, you’ll be able to do this research yourself. However, if you’re held in custody, you may need a close friend or trusted relative to do this for you. By taking the time to find a criminal defense lawyer with a good reputation, you can ensure that you’ll be able to present the best defense possible when it’s your time to go to court.

Dealing with Criminal Charges

When you’re arrested, it’s easy to panic and become overwhelmed with anxiety. However, it’s important to stay calm, keep a clear head and access legal advice. By consulting with a criminal defense lawyer before you talk to the police, you can get the advice you need and begin defending yourself against any charges from the get-go.