Why Is It So Important To Choose the Right Criminal Defense Attorney?
Selecting the right criminal defense lawyer to handle your case can be a very stressful and overwhelming process. However, finding the best attorney for you is one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make. We put together a small guide on How To Find The Right Criminal Defense Lawyer, but the purpose of this post is to point out some red flags when hiring criminal defense lawyers that you should look out for when looking for an attorney. In the event you come across any of these behaviors, our advice is to proceed with extreme caution!
1. Attorneys That Use Scare Tactics
It is no secret that criminal charges have very serious consequences, including possible jail time and permanent criminal convictions. However, an attorney’s job is to help you through the process of handling your case, not make it more stressful. If an attorney is attempting to scare you into hiring them to handle your case, they are probably exhibiting bullying behavior that can have very negative consequences later on in your case. For example, will the attorney also bully you when it comes time to make important decisions regarding your case? It’s probably best to avoid attorneys that use scare tactics during consultations.
2. Lawyers That Pressure You Into Signing A Contract
Generally, it is common practice for attorneys to review a retainer agreement with potential new clients during consultations. After all, it is important for clients to understand the nature and extent of the contract with their lawyer. However, deciding which attorney to hire should not be a rushed decision. We strongly encourage all clients to meet with multiple attorneys before selecting who to hire. Much like attorneys that use scare tactics, lawyers that pressure you into signing a contract are displaying a bullying behavior that can be very problematic down the road.
3. Promises That Are Too Good To Be True
As the old saying goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Over the years, I have heard countless attorneys promise clients that they will get the charges dropped, sometimes without even looking at the case file first. While it is certainly possible for an experienced criminal defense lawyer to get a case dismissed, you should be very wary of any attorney that guarantees such an outcome. Unfortunately, there are many attorneys out there who have no problem telling you exactly what you want to here in order to get your business. A lawyer that is willing to be dishonest with you before you hire them, odds are they will continue to be dishonest with you throughout your case. If you have been arrested and are facing criminal charges, choose a lawyer that will take the time to properly investigate your case and prepare the best defense possible.
4. Attorneys Who Brag About Knowing The Judge or Prosecutors On Your Case
Without a doubt, it is important for a criminal defense lawyer to know the local judges and prosecutors. Similarly, being familiar with the court staff can also be beneficial for your case. For example, knowing the policies and procedures for the court where your case is pending can provide insight on the possible outcomes for your case. And to a certain extent, it is possible that a strong professional relationship with a particular judge or prosecutor can be helpful. However, it is inappropriate to suggest that a client will get a better result simply because the attorney knows someone directly involved with your case.
What Do I Do If I Meet With An Attorney Who Exhibits These Behaviors?
In general, lawyers who exhibit these behaviors during consultations are likely to use similar problematic behavior down the road. However, these are certainly not hard and fast rules. Again, we strongly urge all clients to meet with multiple lawyers before making any hiring decisions. It is very important for you to feel comfortable and confident with the attorney you choose to handle your case. The best way to make an informed decision is to compare and contrast the feedback you receive from multiple sources.
Having to switch attorneys in the middle of your case can be very expensive. Don’t wait until it’s too late to pick the right lawyer for you. If you have a pending criminal charge, contact Haddad Law Firm today for a free consultation. (469) 844-0008