What Makes a Good Criminal Defense Lawyer in San Jose, CA?
May 5, 2023 | Ahmed & Sukaram, DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys
Few things are more important than hiring a good criminal defense lawyer when you’re in legal trouble. A San Jose criminal lawyer can help you avoid a criminal conviction and keep you out of jail.
If you’ve never been in trouble before, it can be hard to know what makes a good defense attorney. If you’ve hired a bad lawyer in the past, you may wonder how you can get someone better this time.
Read on to learn more about what makes a good defense attorney in San Jose, California.
Responsibilities of a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Your San Jose criminal defense attorney will have a lot of responsibilities in your case. Once you understand what they can do for you, it is easier to recognize who is and is not qualified to handle your case.
On the most basic level, your criminal defense lawyer will represent you in court. They will speak on your behalf to the judge and the prosecutor if necessary. Their job is to prevent you from getting convicted and mitigate the consequences if you are convicted.
Behind the scenes, most criminal defense lawyers perform the following tasks:
- Explain charges to their clients
- Investigate the case and review the evidence against the defendant
- Collect exculpatory evidence
- File bond motions and pretrial motions
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a plea deal (if necessary)
- Research the law
- Prepare for trial
Your lawyer should keep you updated on what they are doing throughout your case. If they don’t, this is a red flag. You deserve to be kept up to date each step of the way.
Qualities of a Good Criminal Defense Lawyer
Not all criminal defense lawyers are created equally. While each went to law school and passed the California State Bar Exam, certain qualities make some lawyers better than others.
In general, you’ll want to hire a defense attorney who:
- Has experience practicing in your jurisdiction
- Understands the law and your specific charges
- Is a strong and clear communicator
- Prepares meticulously for the case
- Pays attention to small details
- Excels in public speaking
- Uses discretion
- Respects attorney-client confidentiality
- Makes you feel comfortable and supported
You should interview your lawyer and ask questions about these skills before hiring them.
It’s okay to speak with several different lawyers before deciding who is the best for your case. A great lawyer will happily answer your questions and understand the importance of a good match and a strong attorney-client relationship.
Read on to learn more about tips to choose the best criminal defense lawyer in San Jose, California.
When Do You Need To Hire a San Jose Criminal Defense Attorney?
You should hire a criminal defense lawyer in San Jose, CA whenever you are charged with a crime. Criminal charges can have serious consequences, including prison time, hefty fines, and collateral consequences. A lawyer can help you avoid this significant impact on your life as long as you hire them as soon as possible.
Some people are arrested and wait in jail until their lawyer files a bond motion. In this case, your family or friends might hire a lawyer on your behalf. You may also get the chance to call a lawyer from jail. If you can’t afford a lawyer, one will be appointed for you under the Sixth Amendment.
If you’ve been released from jail or weren’t arrested but instead were ordered to appear in court later, you will have some time to meet lawyers in person before your court date. This is ideal because you can get a better sense of a lawyer in person. Plus, you’ll feel less pressure and more opportunity to hire the right advocate since you won’t be sitting in jail.
However, it is important that you adequately prepare for your consultation before meeting with a criminal defense lawyer in San Jose, CA. That way, you can make the most efficient use of your time.
Contact Our 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) 217-8818
Ahmed & Sukaram, DUI and Criminal Defense Attorneys – Redwood City Office
600 Allerton St Suite 201G, Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 299-0500