Criminal Defense Attorney - Tips and Considerations

You should consider hiring a criminal defense attorney if you have been arrested for a crime. Keep in mind that the victim may not necessarily have pressed charges against you. The state can press charges against you in some cases. Although you may be offered a government appointed lawyer, you may feel more comfortable hiring your own lawyer. You may be able to receive an excellent support with the state appointed lawyer, but it is also possible that a hired lawyer will work harder on your case.

Some people are arrested after being stopped by the police. They wonder if they should answer questions posed by law enforcement officials. If you are stopped, there are some points that you should consider. If the police ask what you are doing in the area, you may have been stopped under the suspicion of loitering. Law enforcement officials have the right to ask you these questions under most loitering laws. After they have asked you questions related to loitering, legally you do not have to answer further questions. It is in your best interest, however, to ask the police why you are being stopped and if you may leave. If they have a good reason for stopping you other than the suspicion of loitering, he or she may have the right to ask you further questions. If you are arrested, a lawyer will want to know the full circumstances of your arrest. In some situations, it may be better to answer the questions, but that depends on the situation.

When you seek a criminal defense attorney, read any literature that you may find related to that person. Make sure that the lawyer has passed the bar exam. Look for publications that carry information regarding the lawyer's previous cases. Inquire about the lawyer's experience, and ask about the lawyer's educational background. Usually, a lawyer who has experience in cases similar to your own, should rank at the top of your list. Take the time to consult with a variety of criminal defense attorneys in your area. If you know people who work in the legal field, ask about the lawyer's reputation.

Although it is natural to want a lawyer who will spend time with you immediately, it is important to understand that the best lawyers are some of the busiest people in the business. Sometimes you may have to sacrifice immediate response for the opportunity to have the best lawyer backing you. Although lawyers are available in a wide range of budgets, the best criminal defense attorney is likely not the least expensive lawyer. Expect to pay more for a quality lawyer. Lawyers usually charge their clients an hourly fee or a flat fee. Do not forget to ask about additional fees that may include filing fees or document fees. Hiring a lawyer is an important decision, and although you should take your time to choose the best lawyer for your case, you need to hire a lawyer as soon as it is possible.