If you have criminal charges filed against you, it is time to hire a criminal defence lawyer. It is a serious situation and you could find yourself serving substantial jail time in addition to paying fines. Your ability to obtain a good job will be affected and so will your reputation. Your future is at stake and it is important to trust your attorney. That is why you should find representation by someone who specializes in what you are charged with and the type of court your case will be handled through.
You might think you will only have to pay a fine, but what may begin as something minor can quickly turn into something much more serious once the investigation has begun. You can end up facing a lot of jail time and even go to federal prison. You improve your chances for a better result if you hire someone early in the process.
Generate a list by asking your friends and family for a referral. If you have ever had to use an attorney, ask them whom they recommend. Research the yellow pages, internet and different professional associations.
You want to find someone who specializes in the same type of charges you are facing. The State Bar will have a list of names you can use and there are legal associations in each state that you can check. The more names you have to choose from the better chance you have of finding someone who will best represent you.
It is also important to know something about their legal practice. Find out if they have experience in your type of charge. Are they experienced in federal or state courts? The two court systems are very different and you want someone who has knowledge and experience in the type of system you r case will be heard in.
You want someone who is experienced and has a complete understanding of the type of court system you are facing. Laws are complex and it is best to choose someone who has experience and knowledge about one specific area instead of someone who knows a little about everything.
After you have done your research, you should schedule meetings with several to ask questions before hiring one. You want to know what to expect during the process. What is their acquittal rate and how do they plan to take care of your case. Also, ask how often they have been to trial before a jury.
The cost of hiring an attorney will vary but a few things are standard. If your case is for a simple misdemeanor charge, they will probably charge you a flat fee. However, if it is for something more serious and complex, they will charge an hourly rate. Also find out about any possible additional cost such as filing fees or photo copies; anything associated with developing your defense.
Facing criminal charges can have a huge effect on your life. That is why it is important to hire a criminal defence lawyer who has experience in the area you are being charged and someone you can sit beside in the courtroom that you trust.
You might think you will only have to pay a fine, but what may begin as something minor can quickly turn into something much more serious once the investigation has begun. You can end up facing a lot of jail time and even go to federal prison. You improve your chances for a better result if you hire someone early in the process.
Generate a list by asking your friends and family for a referral. If you have ever had to use an attorney, ask them whom they recommend. Research the yellow pages, internet and different professional associations.
You want to find someone who specializes in the same type of charges you are facing. The State Bar will have a list of names you can use and there are legal associations in each state that you can check. The more names you have to choose from the better chance you have of finding someone who will best represent you.
It is also important to know something about their legal practice. Find out if they have experience in your type of charge. Are they experienced in federal or state courts? The two court systems are very different and you want someone who has knowledge and experience in the type of system you r case will be heard in.
You want someone who is experienced and has a complete understanding of the type of court system you are facing. Laws are complex and it is best to choose someone who has experience and knowledge about one specific area instead of someone who knows a little about everything.
After you have done your research, you should schedule meetings with several to ask questions before hiring one. You want to know what to expect during the process. What is their acquittal rate and how do they plan to take care of your case. Also, ask how often they have been to trial before a jury.
The cost of hiring an attorney will vary but a few things are standard. If your case is for a simple misdemeanor charge, they will probably charge you a flat fee. However, if it is for something more serious and complex, they will charge an hourly rate. Also find out about any possible additional cost such as filing fees or photo copies; anything associated with developing your defense.
Facing criminal charges can have a huge effect on your life. That is why it is important to hire a criminal defence lawyer who has experience in the area you are being charged and someone you can sit beside in the courtroom that you trust.
About the Author:
If you are looking for a criminal defence lawyer toronto contact Donna V Pledge Barrister & Solicitor 1013 Wilson Avenue Suite 203 Toronto ON M3K 1G1 (416) 630-8702 . Contact your toronto criminal lawyers today.
