If you’re facing criminal charges, arguably the most important thing is to find the right criminal defense lawyer.
Whether you are accused of DUI, possession, assault, or white-collar crimes, your attorney can be the X Factor in helping to tip the scales of justice in your favor. It can translate into a “not guilty” verdict, less time behind bars, or probation over jail time.
“When your freedom, future, and reputation are on the line, hiring the right criminal defense lawyer isn’t just important — it’s everything,” says Michael R. Bartish, criminal defense attorney and partner at SBBL Law. “A good lawyer doesn’t just know the law; they know how to apply it strategically to protect you at every stage of the case.”
The criminal justice system can be unforgiving, complex, and heartless if you face charges and have no clue how to go about things. But a good lawyer can help by explaining what you’re up against, laying out options, and helping you make decisions.
If you are not clear where to start, what follows are seven tips about how to select the right criminal defense lawyer for your case.
Table of Contents
1. Look for Specialization in Criminal Law
Not all lawyers practice the same kind of law. You wouldn’t hire a real estate lawyer to represent you during a DUI case — and you wouldn’t have a general practitioner fill in during a criminal law case. Criminal law is complex, which is why you’ll need a lawyer who practices criminal law exclusively or at least primarily.
Look for someone who has handled cases similar to yours. If you’re facing federal charges, choose a lawyer with federal court experience. If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, find an attorney who regularly defends people facing those types of charges.
2. Check Their Courtroom Experience
Facing felony charges entails appearing in court — and that means hearings, motions, plea bargains, and the occasional trial. Your lawyer not only needs to know the law, but also must be comfortable standing in front of a judge and jury.
Ask any criminal defense lawyers you’re considering how often they take cases to trial, what kinds of results they’ve had, and if they feel at ease going toe-to-toe with prosecutors. You need someone who is going to plead your case competently.
3. Evaluate Their Knowledge of the Local Scene
The justice system may differ from state to state. Local ordinances, prosecutor decisions, and even judge demeanor can all influence the disposition of a case.
That’s why it’s best to seek out a criminal defense attorney who regularly practices in the jurisdiction where your case will be heard. They will get a feel for the local judicial system, how judges there tend to rule in certain cases, and what kind of plea bargains prosecutors often make.
4. Consider Communication and Transparency
You need a lawyer who explains things in clear terms. Communication is crucial — especially in criminal defense when there’s so much on the line and when tension is inevitable.
Ask during your consultation how they intend to stay in touch. Will they phone you back? Do they explain things in a manner that is clear to you? If a lawyer is evasive, secretive, or unavailable early on, be suspicious. They probably won’t be any different once your case has started. In fact, things might get worse.
5. Ask Up Front About Fee Structure
Hiring a lawyer to fight against criminal charges is expensive — but you don’t have to be left in the dark as to what it will cost. Have your lawyer explain their fee policy before you retain them.
Some attorneys have a flat fee, and others have an hourly fee. They should be specific on price by clearly stating what is included, what is additional, and whether or not there are payment plans.
6. Check Reviews and Get Referrals
Perhaps the best way to learn about an attorney is to get the nitty-gritty from their past clients. Online reviews, peer ratings, and testimonials can all provide insight into an attorney’s reputation, courtroom demeanor, and results.
You can also seek recommendations from friends, family, or even other attorneys. Word of mouth referrals can refine your shortlist of candidates so you find the right lawyer.
7. Listen to Your Instincts
Experience and qualifications are required, but so is your own self-assurance. You need to have a criminal defense lawyer who will hear your case, listen to your problems, and make you feel heard and understood.
If the lawyer is being too aggressive, cocky, or just doesn’t “get” you, then maybe that’s a warning sign to keep searching for a better fit.
Facing criminal charges is one of the most stressful things anyone will ever have to do. But you don’t have to go through it by yourself. Your defense attorney will not only protect your legal interests, but also lead you through the often bewildering legal process with confidence.