Lawyer selection matters. If you’re charged with a crime, a competent lawyer can help you win your case and get your life back. If you already have a list of prospective lawyers, here are a few questions you’ll want to ask.
How long have you been practicing law?
That’s a good question suggested by the American Bar Association and one you can start the interview with. While you can easily check this information on the lawyer’s site, asking about it can help set the proper tone for the rest of the interview.
How often do your clients go to trial?
Hiring a lawyer who has significant experience in handling trial court cases is an advantage for you. If yours goes to trial, you can count on your lawyer to know what to do. By hiring someone who’s handled thousands of cases like yours before, you won’t have to worry about your lawyer being confused or at a loss as to what measures need to be taken or what deadlines will matter when filing the paperwork.
What will happen to me?
An experienced criminal lawyer like Chad Lewin can provide you with scenarios of what would happen in case of a guilty outcome. Your lawyer can also take steps to reduce your penalties and fees. Instead of spending time in jail, you may be asked to render community service instead or be put on probation. By asking your lawyer about what may happen, you’ll know what’s at stake and understand why having a tenacious, experienced lawyer matters.
How familiar are you with the charges against me?
That’s a good thing to ask. If your lawyer has limited experience in handling and tackling cases like yours in court, then that may not be a good idea. Hire a criminal lawyer like Chad Lewin. Someone who has handled thousands of these cases will be in the best position to help you.
