Looking for a criminal lawyer can be a situation you may never want to find yourself in. But, be that as it may, the day may come when you, a colleague, friend, or family member may find it necessary.
The work of a criminal lawyer is to defend you if you have been charged with a crime. You may have been wrongly accused or committed a crime unknowingly through a wrong decision. Whatever the circumstances, you will need excellent legal representation to get the best chance at a favorable outcome.
But you just straight out hire the first lawyer you find on Internet or one who your colleague recommends. You need the best lawyer for your case, and as the client, you’ll have to do rigorous interviews to gauge whether or not they’re an ideal fit.
Click here to see a list of 3 critical questions you need to ask Philadelphia criminal lawyers so that you’re well prepared for the legal battle ahead.
1. What Should I Do to Help My Case?
Although you expect your ideal criminal lawyer to take full charge of the situation, as the defendant, you can take specific actions that will help you get a favorable ruling.
Each criminal case is unique, and you want your lawyer to have a personalized approach to your case. For instance, your lawyer may advise you to avoid making public statements or speaking to witnesses involved in the case. They may also ask you to collect as many documents and records related to your case.
With both your efforts combined, you can make a world of difference in swinging the pendulum of justice your way (or gavel in this case).
2. Will You Handle the Case Alone?
It’s important that you find out if your criminal defense attorney will be handling the case alone. If they are going to bring in another party, at what capacity do they plan on involving them?
Lawyers in big firms tend to pass off the case to a less experienced junior lawyer. In some cases, you’ll find that the lawyer you meet with may not be the lawyer representing you in court.
No one wants to find out their lawyer is not available on the court date. As such, it’s best that you ask your lawyer this question right off the bat.
3. Can You Guarantee the Outcome of My Case
This is a sort of trick question. A lawyer who tries to guarantee a particular outcome is probably just saying what you want to hear so you can hire them. An experienced criminal lawyer should analyze your case and give you a variety of possible outcomes.
They might try to predict what will happen and perhaps give you the best and worst-case scenarios. However, they will not boldly guarantee anything.
Interview the Best Philadelphia Criminal Lawyers
Facing a criminal charge in court can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. Your livelihood, reputation, and freedom could be on the line. As such, it is absolutely critical that you engage an attorney experienced in criminal law to represent you.
Create a shortlist of reliable and affordable Philadelphia criminal lawyers and ask them these questions. Only consider those who give you honest, solid answers so you can work with someone you can trust.