5 Things to Be Aware of When You Are Looking For a Criminal Defense Lawyer in California
May 14, 2024 | Ahmed & Sukaram, DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys
Choosing the right criminal defense attorney is crucial when a defendant is facing charges in California, as the attorney’s experience, competence, and approach can significantly influence the outcome of the case. Crafting a strong defense and ensuring that your rights are protected depends largely on having the right legal representation.
To make sure you’re working with a lawyer who will give you the best chance of a positive outcome in your case, it’s important to know what you should be looking for. Here are five things to be aware of when you’re looking for a criminal defense lawyer in California:
- Experience and Specialization Matter
When you are choosing a lawyer to represent you in a criminal matter, experience and specialization matter. It’s absolutely essential to work with a lawyer who has experience handling criminal cases. If you are working with a lawyer who doesn’t understand this area of the law, it doesn’t matter if they have decades of experience as a lawyer – it won’t do you any good.
It’s also necessary to pick a lawyer who has experience handling the specific type of case you’re dealing with. Some lawyers specialize in DUIs, drug charges, or white collar crimes – not every criminal defense lawyer handles every type of criminal charge. Make sure you choose someone who has handled your type of case in the past.
- Look for Local Knowledge
When looking for a criminal defense lawyer in California, it’s helpful to find an attorney who has local experience. When a lawyer practices locally, they will understand the local laws better than an attorney who isn’t from the area.
More importantly, your lawyer will know how specific courtrooms and judges operate, giving them insight into the best way to build an effective defense. They’re also likely to have good working relationships with prosecuting attorneys, which can work in your favor when it comes to plea deals or obtaining other resolutions to your case that don’t include going to trial.
- Reputation and Client Testimonials Matter
A good lawyer should not only have a strong legal track record but also quality feedback from past clients. You can evaluate this by looking at online reviews from sites like Avvo or Google. These platforms will provide you with insight into the experiences others have had with the attorney, reflecting on aspects such as communication, transparency in handling cases, and overall satisfaction with outcomes.
Make sure you look at reviews across multiple platforms and not just on their website. Attorneys will often curate reviews and testimonials on their website and only include positive ones.
- Evaluate a Lawyer’s Communication Skills
Clear and consistent communication between you and your criminal defense lawyer is vital to creating an effective attorney-client relationship. Make sure you know how often you can expect updates from your attorney and how they will respond – will you get a phone call, an email, or in-person meetings?
When you reach out to your lawyer, will you speak directly with them? Or will they have a paralegal or other associate attorney call you back?
You also want to make sure your lawyer can explain your charges, possible penalties, and legal defenses in an easily understandable way without confusing legal jargon that could leave you more perplexed.
- Cost Matters – But Shouldn’t Be the Only Consideration
Cost is a significant consideration, and examining an attorney’s fee structure before hiring them can help you make an informed decision. Criminal defense attorneys typically offer various payment arrangements, with a flat fee and hourly rates being the most common.
No matter what fee arrangement your lawyer uses, make sure you have a clear understanding of what services and expenses are included.
Cost is important. However, your future and freedom are at stake, so cost shouldn’t be the only consideration – don’t automatically go with the cheapest option. Think of this as an investment, and make sure you spend what you need to in order to secure your freedom.
With so much on the line, carefully consider each factor when making this important choice. If you’re prepared to discuss your case with a dedicated defense attorney, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Contact our Redwood City Criminal Defense Law Firm of Ahmed & Sukaram, DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys Today For Help
For more information please contact our criminal defense law firm of Ahmed & Sukaram, DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys at the nearest location for a free consultation.
Ahmed & Sukaram, DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys – San Jose Office
1625 The Alameda, Suite 405, San Jose, CA 95126
(408) 412-5623
Ahmed & Sukaram, DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys – Redwood City Office
600 Allerton St, Suite 201G, Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 835-7104