What are the ways that a criminal defendant can determine the quality of their defense attorney?
As you might have guessed, there is great variation in the quality of criminal defense lawyers out there. Most of the time, the best measure of quality is through the attorney’s experience in handling cases that are very similar to your own. But the issue of quality representation may be much more complicated than experience alone.
Beware of criminal defense lawyers who have been subject to discipline from state bars. If a criminal defense lawyer has been disciplined, it’s important to understand the circumstances of the disciplinary action. A history of disciplinary actions may mean that the criminal defense lawyer will not provide you with the most professional representation.
While some criminal cases go to a jury trial, many more are resolved through the plea negotiation process. Plea negotiations typically occur between the prosecutor and the defendant’s criminal attorney. Whether or not you obtain a favorable plea agreement may hinge on the experience level of your criminal defense attorney. In addition to their experience, you will also want to get a good picture of your prospective criminal lawyer’s negotiation skills. Successfully taking a case to trial and successfully negotiating a plea agreement require two significantly different skill sets.
Does your criminal defense lawyer or juvenile lawyer respond to your calls promptly?
Does your criminal defense attorney or juvenile crime attorney just tell you what you want to hear?
Has your defense lawyer outlined the risks, circumstances, and potential outcomes of taking your case to a jury trial?
Has your criminal lawyer given you enough time to sufficiently understand the position of a prosecutor including all possible plea proposals and potential penalties for the crimes charged?
Do you understand the details of your free agreement with your criminal defense lawyer?
Has your criminal defense lawyer or juvenile court lawyer documented your family situation including whether you have dependents to support, whether you are professionally licensed and/or whether your county of residence possesses alternatives to incarceration that you may pre qualify for?
With so much on the line with a criminal defense legal matter, it is essential that you make an informed decision with regard to the criminal attorney that you hire. Two of the most important factors to consider are communication and experience. If your criminal lawyer accurately communicates the chances and consequences of all your options, you have the best chance of choosing the most favorable course of action. Further, the more experience your attorney has in dealing with situations like yours, the more likely they will be able to assist you in getting a result with which you can live.
If you are facing criminal charges in the Clearwater or Tarpon Springs area, discuss your options with an experienced Clearwater dui defense attorney today.