Tips for Choosing a Criminal Defense Attorney

by Kevin Smith Author

The criminal attorney you choose should be able to provide local, state, and federal representation. Don’t delay in requesting a lawyer for your best defense. Using the only cost as a factor for searching for or signing for representation will most certainly not get you the best defense.

Look for a Board Certified Criminal Defense Attorney

Know that of the 70,000-plus lawyers in Texas, only about 10 percent hold board certification. Certification acknowledges specialized training in the attorney’s area of practice.

If you are looking for a new solicitor, searching for “Stephenville, TX, lawyers” will bring up search results that include legal data aggregator websites and law firm links that all appear to be equal in value. The question is how to decide on the law firm and representation that is best for you. The Texas Board of Legal Specialization reports to consumers those attorneys that have been peer-reviewed, experience-tested, and receive continuing education in their specialized area. Ask for this specialized certification to assure your best representation.

In addition, look for a good criminal defense lawyer that is active in organizations supporting education and relevant knowledge that help to maintain updated information, trends, and defenses. He or she should garner good peer reviews and client testimonials.

Types of Defenses Provided

Murder, drug offenses, assault, sex crimes, and fraud are all typical kind of cases that a criminal offense attorney should be trained and experienced in to represent their clients.

Don’t Sign before a Face-to-Face Meeting

Before you decide on representation, make sure you have a face-to-face meeting with your prospective lawyer. Chemistry and trust are as important as board certification and experience. Ask your solicitor about case history and examples of their work during your meeting. If you have chemistry and are satisfied with their experience, don’t let cost get in the way.

If you’ve done your homework, you’ll get what you pay for, and this helps you maintain as many of your rights as possible.

Avoiding a Trial

The first step will be to create a case strategy designed to provide the best available outcome. It may be the best tactic to attack the gathering of evidence or perhaps the lack of evidence. A dismissal would mean the case will not move forward, normally based on how evidence has been handled. Negotiation to pursue reduced charges or a reduced sentence could be the best tactic for the case. A criminal defense attorney that is familiar with diversion programs and alternative sentencing options is important in this part of the criminal defense process. Criminal charges may need to be fought at trial but other tactics should be employed first.

Use these tips to find the Stephenville, TX, lawyers that will protect your constitutional rights.