Categories: Criminal Defense - General

What Questions Should You Ask a Criminal Defense Attorney?

Facing criminal charges is one of the scariest things that can happen to a person. In addition to the social stigma of being charged with a crime, you could also face penalties such as jail time and steep fines. Regardless of the charges against you, it is important you seek the counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Choosing the right attorney should be a detailed process, but when you are facing an interrogation by law enforcement, you must act fast. You must strike a balance between finding an attorney fast and finding the best attorney available. How can you determine if a particular attorney is right for you?

Your Initial Meeting

The first meeting with a potential attorney gives you an opportunity to learn about his or her experience and demeanor, and it gives the attorney an opportunity to become familiar with your case.

Bring to the meeting any documents you were given in court concerning your charges, information about your next court date, your bail papers, a copy of the police report if there is one, and any other paperwork related to your case.

One of your main concerns when interviewing a potential criminal defense attorney is whether his or her experience will help you win your case.

During your initial meeting, ask the following questions:

How long have you practiced law and has it always been criminal law?
What law school did you attend?
Are you a member of any bar associations or professional organizations?
Have you ever defended a case similar to mine?
Do you have any relationship with the prosecutor’s office?
With what frequency do you arrange or accept plea agreements?
With what frequency do your cases go to trial?
Do you charge a flat rate or hourly fee and what is that rate/fee?
Are there additional expenses I can expect besides paying for your time? (There are sometimes fees for tests, records requests, and other things that can help build your case.)

In most instances, the attorney will provide detailed answers that will help you make your decision. In addition to general questions about how an attorney works, you will also want to ask questions pertaining to your case.

You and the attorney should discuss if your plea should be innocent or guilty, if you should consider pleading guilty to lesser charges, or if you should accept some sort of deal. Discussion about these issues is important because you and your attorney need to be on the same page concerning strategy for your case.

Choosing Your Attorney

Many people speak to only one criminal defense attorney and if they like that person they commit to representation. However, some people prefer to interview more than one attorney and are faced with choosing from the group of contenders.

If you have interviewed more than one attorney and you are unsure of your decision, consider factors such as experience, strategy, and fees. Finally, ask yourself which attorney made you feel most confident. Chances are if you find someone with whom you are confident working, and who has experience and is affordable, you have found the right attorney for you.

Are you facing criminal charges? Are you in search of a criminal defense attorney in San Mateo County, Palo Alto, San Jose or the nine Bay Area Counties? Contact the Law Offices of Ross Green at (650) 780-0707 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.