Article Noodle

While everyone has the right to a public defender, and one will be appointed if there are no funds to hire an outside attorney, it is always better to solicit your own criminal lawyer to represent you in court. Do not take this decision lightly, as your freedom and fortune may be at stake.

The process of choosing a reputable criminal defense lawyer is important, as you want to find the best lawyer for your case.

1. Compose a short list of candidates

Make a list of potential candidates. You can check the phone book for firms in your area who handle cases like yours, or you can do an online search. Visit the websites of those who attracted your attention, and verify if they really are experts in the area in which you are being prosecuted. This information can usually be found in their biographies, or reviews published by their former clients.

Many legal prosecutors also publish articles. The content of these publications will quite likely reveal if these lawyers are comfortable with certain branches of the law. If they are not, you may want to move on to the next candidates on your list.

Lawyers are smart, but that does not mean that all are bilingual. If your English is limited, you may try to locate a law firm that has representatives who are familiar with your native tongue. Communications are important not only to express your concerns, but also to properly relay vital information, before and throughout the case.

Finally, check your finances and remove those lawyers who are beyond your means.

2. Contact your candidates

Once you have a list of possible candidates, try to set up an interview. Some Criminal Lawyers will agree to a meeting, while others may not have the time to be questioned by a potential client. At least, through your call, you will find out if the firm's staff is professional and courteous.

If you are granted an interview, explain your case, but without giving away too much detail. Once an agreement has been reached, you can disclose whatever information is pertinent to your case. Ask for references, and check them as soon as you get a chance.

Confirm the lawyer's hourly pay rate, and how much you will have to pay up front. Rates and retainers can vary significantly from firm to firm - do keep in mind that the cheapest criminal layer is not necessarily the best one for your case.

3. Make your decision

Hire the lawyer you can trust and feel most comfortable with. Not only count on your research, but also trust your instincts. They are both equally invaluable. If you are not confident your criminal lawyer is capable of handling your case, you are fighting a losing battle. Therefore, if you want the best possible legal representation, do your homework, follow your gut, and keep believing in the abilities of your criminal lawyer, even if the road turns rough.

Dr Martine Marich and her team are Criminal Lawyers in Melbourne and Geelong – specialists in their field. They have a wealth of experience in all traffic offenses, drug offenses, sexual offenses, fraud and more. Their aim is to provide high levels of expertise and personal attention at an affordable price. For the best advice and defense in Criminal Lawyers contact Dr Martine Marich.