Being accused of a crime is a stressful and traumatic experience that can happen to anyone. When your freedom or reputation is on the line, the last thing you want is to deal with a lawyer that doesn’t take you or your case seriously. Not every lawyer is equipped to provide the empathetic and effective representation you need. There are some key characteristics to look out for when selecting a criminal defense attorney.
Respect and Empathy
Respect and empathy are things that every human being deserves regardless of their past or appearance. When it comes to something as personal as criminal charges, you want someone who appreciates your circumstances and what’s at stake for you during the case. During your initial consultation, pay attention to how you are feeling. If you have the opportunity to meet with an attorney in person, make sure that your personalities are compatible. Someone who respects you and empathizes with you will work to help you feel as comfortable as possible during this stressful process. Don’t be afraid to shop around for lawyers or ask for referrals in the event that you’re not 100% certain you want to work with someone.
Practice Areas
Although most lawyers practice in several areas of law, not every lawyer is equipped to handle a criminal defense case. Criminal defense is an extremely broad practice area. While the statues are the same throughout Florida, sometimes counties and municipalities are given broad discretion on how to implement the laws. Your lawyer should not only be well versed in local laws, but also in state and federal law to handle all possible aspects of your case.
When you are at your initial consultation, your potential lawyer will ask you questions that are pertinent to your case, but you should also come prepared with questions of your own. A good lawyer will feel comfortable answering difficult questions about their legal capabilities without taking them personally. Here are some examples of what to ask a potential attorney:
- How long have you been practicing criminal law?
- How much experience do you have defending clients in this scenario?
- Do you have a strategy in mind for my case?
- How much does your service cost?
No two lawyers will respond the same way, but they should be able to give you direct answers. For example, if you ask how they approach criminal cases, they should be able to give you a detailed explanation of their process, and how they perform appropriate due diligence on their end. If an attorney attempts to brush off the question, you might expect the same reaction after your case is in their hands.
Although you have found yourself in a difficult situation, don’t give up hope for a positive outcome. If you are in need of legal advice after a criminal charge or are under investigation for a crime, call the office of Heather Bryan Law, P.A. at (863) 417-2130 or fill out a contact form online today.
Heather Bryan Law, P.A.
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