The US law firm industry is worth around $356 billion, with 450,000 firms registered in the US. There are currently around 252,000 criminal defense lawyers practicing in the US. Violent crime rates are falling, but property crime rates are rising, by 6.7% since 2001. There were more than 7.63 million arrests for different offenses in 2022, and on average, around 10 million per year.
Selecting the right criminal defense attorney to represent you can have a huge impact on the outcome of your case – don’t make the mistake of relying on an overworked public defender. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing a criminal defense lawyer:
Research Experience And Specialization
Not all criminal defense attorneys have the same level of experience or expertise. Look for a lawyer who specializes in the type of criminal case you are facing, such as drug crimes, white-collar crimes, or violent crimes.
Check the lawyer’s background and credentials.
- How many years have they been practicing criminal law?
- Do they have experience handling cases similar to yours?
- Have they taken any specialized training?
You want an attorney who is very familiar with the charges you are facing and the defense strategies that may apply.
Ask About Case Results
When interviewing potential attorneys, be sure to ask about their track record handling cases like yours.
- How often do their cases get dismissed?
- How frequently do they negotiate favorable plea bargains?
- For cases that go to trial, what is their acquittal rate?
While a lawyer cannot guarantee results, you want someone with a proven history of getting positive outcomes for clients facing similar charges. Be wary of any lawyer who promises you specific results; ethical attorneys will only describe their experience.
Communication And Compatibility
Consider how well you are able to communicate with the lawyer during your initial consultation.
- Do you feel comfortable sharing details about your case?
- Does the attorney listen attentively and answer all of your questions?
You want to choose someone with whom you can be honest and upfront, so good rapport and communication are critical. Also, think about overall compatibility – does their personality and working style mesh well with yours? This person may be representing you for months, so it helps if you are comfortable with them.
Average Costs And Fees
The cost of legal representation can vary widely between criminal defense attorneys. Some charge flat fees, while others bill by the hour. Make sure you understand completely what you will be expected to pay and when.
Don’t choose an attorney based on cost alone, but make sure the fees are within your budget. Also, ask if there are any additional expenses you may incur, like expert witness fees.
Availability And Responsiveness
Look at how quickly the attorney responds to your inquiries and how accessible they are. If it takes days to get a call back now, that may indicate problems down the road. You want a lawyer who makes you feel like a priority client. Also, consider the size of the attorney’s caseload – is yours likely to get lost in the shuffle? On average, criminal defense attorneys handle 150 felonies each year. Make sure your attorney has adequate time to dedicate to your defense.
Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer takes research, but it is time well spent. Thoroughly vet attorneys to find one with the right mix of experience, expertise, communication skills, and affordability. This can increase your chances of the best possible result. With an experienced legal advocate on your side, you can feel confident facing the charges against you.
