Hiring a criminal defense attorney may be one of the most important things you do if you are under investigation or charged with criminal conduct. There are a number of crucial questions you should ask any criminal defense attorney prior to hiring them. A defense strategy must be tailored to the specific facts, client and circumstances at hand. Therefore, communication between attorney and client must be first-rate and address not only the client’s inquiries, but also general procedures and court process. A process that is frequently fraught with confusion and uncertainty unless adequately explained to the client beforehand.
Prior to hiring a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles, the following is a list of some of the most basic questions to be discussed.
Key Questions to ask your Criminal Defense Attorney Prior to Hiring:
- Experience in criminal defense practice;
- Will one attorney be devoted to your case, or various associates;
- Familiarity with the underlying type of criminal charge;
- Experience in the courthouse assigned to your case;
- Knowledge of the district attorneys and/or prosecutors assigned to the case;
- General strategy and/or approach to such criminal cases;
- Communication policy with the client: who will handle communication with the client? Attorneys or non-attorneys and paralegals?;
- Fees and Costs involved – Flat fee or on an hourly basis. What costs above and beyond attorney fees?
- Anticipated case duration;
- Potential consequences and punishment for the charges;
- What are the benefits and drawback of Trial vs. Plea Bargaining;
Peter Berlin is nationally recognized and has provided legal commentary for publications such as the Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post, Forbes and Reuters. Mr. Berlin has been practicing law for over 22 years and representing individuals and business charged with state and federal felony and misdemeanor criminal charges. You can read more about Mr. Berlin, his commentary and accomplishments on Wikipedia!
The post 11 Questions to ask your Criminal Defense Attorney appeared first on Peter Berlin.
