Being accused of a crime and having to face criminal charges can be an intense and stressful process, and that process can take a very long time. Having to navigate the criminal justice system can be confusing and difficult, especially if you don’t have legal representation. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
But how do you know which criminal defense attorney is the right fit for your case? There are countless attorneys who will take your case in Baldwin County, but what should you be looking for to ensure you’ve found the right lawyer? Today, we will discuss the qualities that are imperative to look for in a criminal defense lawyer so you can be assured you are getting the advice and representation you deserve.
Attributes to Look For When Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
Knowledge
Knowledge of the subject matter at hand —your criminal case and your specific charges — is very important for you to feel secure about your future after the case. No matter how serious the charge, it is imperative that your attorney has in-depth knowledge of your type of case and be able to use that to their (and your) advantage in the courtroom..
A good criminal defense attorney will have had cases like yours and know the best defenses to consider for your circumstances, understand which witnesses can be beneficial to your case, and how to gather and present evidence that strengthens it..
Confidentiality
What you are being charged with is between you, whom you decide to your lawyer and no one else (outside of anyone you choose to confide in). Being charged with a crime is a serious matter that can tarnish reputations, no matter if you are innocent or not. It is best to not discuss what is going on with friends and to only confide in close family or loved ones if you feel comfortable doing so.
Your lawyer will tell you what is imperative to communicate during the court hearings and what you should keep to yourself. You should feel confident that your lawyer is adhering to attorney-client privilege, which is your right to privacy when it comes to your case.
Experience
Experience is key when selecting a lawyer for your criminal case. It is one of an attorney’s greatest assets and it will help you make sure you are in good hands. It is crucial that your lawyer has the experience it takes to navigate your charges and prepare a solid defense, so take your time vetting them and ask them about their track record, what would be a good result based on the facts and evidence,, and ask them what defenses are available to you for your case. The right lawyer will be able to give you options, explain the circumstances, and make you feel like you are in good hands.
Ability to Negotiate
An attorney with strong negotiating skills can be a huge help for your case. You don’t want someone who will fold under pressure or not be able to stick up for you. Whether negotiating a plea deal or arguing for a lesser charge, your lawyer needs to be able to persuasively negotiate your case in front of the judge.
Determination
No matter how big your case is, your lawyer should be focused on you and give you the best representation they can. They should know all the details of your case, communicate with you readily about any developments, and make you feel like a priority. They should speak to any and all witnesses, look at the facts, and determine what is the right path to go down for your case. Perseverance and determination help win cases, so your lawyer should embody these attributes.
Aggressiveness
A defense attorney needs to be aggressive and stand up to prosecutors with resolution and gumption. You need someone who will stick up for you and be prepared for any hard-hitting questioning from the prosecution. With that aggressiveness comes knowledge and they should know all of your cases’ potential outcomes as well. Since the standard for a conviction in a criminal case is “beyond a reasonable doubt” you want your lawyer to fight for you against the State to help show that doubt. Passion and aggressiveness when useful and warranted are important for your case.
Get Quality Representation with Brackin Law Firm
It’s incredibly stressful to face criminal charges, and the pressure you feel about hiring the right lawyer can make it even worse. It’s tempting to rush the process just to get it over with, but doing so could be a huge mistake. Instead, you need a lawyer who understands what you’re going through and will give you the best legal services possible.
Brackin Law Firm can help. We understand the criminal justice process, how to work with each District Attorney and Assistant District Attorney, city prosecutor, or judge handling your criminal case, and the possibilities prior to ever entering the courtroom.
Our experience allows us to better inform our clients of what to expect prior to even entering the courtroom. We believe in integrity, justice, and honor. We know that going through the legal process is not easy and therefore aim to take as much off of your plate as possible. Contact us today, and let us fight for your future.