Being involved in a lawsuit or charged with a crime can be a frightening experience and may have serious long term consequences.  Retain a qualified attorney.  Hiring a good attorney will be the best money you have ever spent.  In this business, nothing affects the outcome of a case more than the actions of a experienced, focused, intelligent attorney.

 

Discuss your goals and expectations about the case.  Do you like the attorney?  Does he or she put you at ease and thoughtfully consider your questions?  Is the attorney truly interested in helping you?  Beware of an attorney who promises you the moon—he or she may be more interested in the fee.

 

Discuss the attorney’s rates and payment terms.  Some attorneys will handle cases for a flat fee, others by the hours.  Some cases may be very complex while others are not.  Ask about what fee arrangements are best suited to your needs and type of case.

 

Here are a few things to consider when selecting an attorney to represent you when charged with a crime:

 

The attorney’s experience handling your type of case; how long has he or she practiced in the area, what experience does he or she have with cases like yours?

 

Does the attorney have a good professional working relationship with the prosecutor or attorney handling the case?  An attorney with a bad reputation at the courthouse, or one who acts unprofessionally, will do a disservice to his clients.