Your legal team needs to be a good match for you! So choose wisely when you pick a defense attorney.
Thanks for joining us again. In our previous article, we talked about how to approach the issue of needing a criminal defense attorney. Whether you’re facing state or federal charges, and making sure you choose an attorney that practices criminal law are important points. Moving on we’re going to look at a few more things you need to take into account when selecting a Michigan criminal defense attorney. Remember, the right attorney is critical.
What are your priorities?
When you’re charged with a crime, the most important thing is having the best possible outcome for your case. That should always be your primary goal when hiring a criminal defense attorney. However, there are other things that are important as well.
For example, a good working relationship with your criminal lawyer is vital. You’re going to spend a lot of time dealing with them, so it’s critical that you’re able to get along and trust them to do their job properly. Feeling like your defense attorney doesn’t have time for you, doesn’t care about your opinions, and doesn’t listen to you are NOT want you want! In short, you ought to feel comfortable with your lawyer and with his entire defense team.
With that in mind, people look for certain qualities in the attorney they choose. Things like being a good listener, a willingness to address client concerns, and patience when explaining complex legal issues or answering questions about the case are all important. These can make your case run more smoothly and reduce time wasted on unnecessary things, like arguing.
Do some research before making your choice.
Anyone can look good on their own website, but is there any other information available to back up their claims? Read reviews left for the law firm and the attorney you’re considering. What did others have to say? Which national, statewide and local media outlets have covered them? Have they ever been featured in the news? Was it for good work on a case, or for bad behavior?
Another indicator of a good attorney is a good education. Find out where your attorney of choice went to get their law degree, and what degree they hold. Having a Juris Doctorate (also called a Juris Doctor) from a reputable law school goes a long way. This is especially true if the attorney graduated cum laude (which means “with honors” in Latin). Bear in mind however, that education only goes so far – experience counts for a WHOLE LOT more!
Make use of the free consultation!
Most attorneys offer a free consultation. This lets you meet them before you decide to hire them. ALWAYS make use of the free consultation! Often, top Michigan criminal attorneys are willing to do the initial consultation by phone. That expedites the process and still allows both side to get to know one another. It’s a great way to to learn more about your case, and to figure out if you and your criminal defense attorney are a good match. Pay attention to their communication skills, as these will be crucial during this process.
Also, ask about their resources. Most top notch criminal lawyers in Michigan have a large staff consisting of law clerks, researchers, associate attorneys, paralegals, investigators and so on. Be sure that the law firm won’t be farming your case out to some outside, independent contract attorneys that does work for lots of law firms. The best lawyers work full time for one particular law firm, in the firm’s office, with a complete support staff. If you’re not speaking to a criminal attorney like that, then move on.
Making sure that you choose the best possible criminal defense team to represent your interest in a criminal case can make a huge difference in how your case turns out. A skilled attorney can mean the difference between a dismissal and 20 years behind bars.
At The Kronzek Firm, our highly skilled defense attorneys have worked with thousands of criminal cases over the decades. Our criminal lawyers have extensive previous experience in criminal defense, police work, and even as prosecuting attorneys. We have a large support staff for our practice throughout the lower peninsula of Michigan. We believe that our team has an edge because we understand every angle of a criminal case. We’re available 24/7 at 866-766-5245. Call us today to set up your free consultation, and let us help you protect your future.