Choosing the right criminal defense attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. The best criminal defense lawyer will have experience handling charges similar to yours, a strong understanding of Washington criminal law, and a clear strategy for protecting your rights. Before hiring an attorney, compare their experience, communication style, case results, and knowledge of the local court system. This guide explains how to choose a criminal defense attorney and the key factors to consider so you can make an informed decision during a stressful time.
We recommend taking these steps and precautions when selecting a criminal defense attorney:
Ask for Referrals
One way to get referrals is to ask people you know: friends, family, and co-workers. If you know a lawyer practicing a different area of law, ask if they have recommendations for a good criminal defense lawyer.
Another resource you can utilize is your local state bar association. They may have a referral service that can match you to an attorney in your area.
Look for Relevant Experience
If you’re looking for someone to give you a good defense in court, you want a lawyer who is well versed in criminal law. Most importantly, you want an attorney with experience in the specific type of criminal offense you’ve been charged with. Different types of offenses include Driving Under the Influence, domestic violence, misdemeanors, and felonies, among others.
A lawyer who has represented cases similar to yours will be familiar with the legalities surrounding your offense and can work with the system to try and get you a favorable outcome.
Consider a Local Criminal Defense Attorney
A local lawyer will be knowledgeable of the procedures performed in the courthouse you will be tried in. They will be familiar with the behaviors and preferences of the judges and prosecuting attorneys in the area. This advantage will allow them to better plan your defense.
Local lawyers will have connections in the community and be able to utilize them when working on your case. Local lawyers may also cost less, and their proximity to the area will mean that they will be more available to meet with you on an in-person basis.
Ask Questions
To find out if the attorney will be the best person to represent your case, make sure to ask them questions, such as:
- What is the fee structure?
- Which attorney will be handling your case?
- How many cases have they won/lost?
- When and how often will you receive updates about your case?
As you ask them these questions, use them as an opportunity to see if you think the lawyer is someone you think you could get along with and who would be a good advocate in the courtroom. If they seem unwilling to answer your questions, take it as a sign that you should find another source of representation.
While criminal defense attorneys represent individuals accused of crimes, some incidents can also involve separate civil legal matters. For example, if a car accident or physical altercation results in someone being injured, the injured party may have the right to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim, in addition to any criminal case. Because criminal and civil cases serve different purposes and follow different legal processes, it’s important to work with an attorney who has experience in the area of law that applies to your situation.
Do You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney in Snohomish County?
If you or a loved one are accused of a crime in Snohomish county, it is imperative that you find a criminal defense attorney who understands the workings of the local laws and courthouse personnel.
At Anderson Hunter, our attorneys’ successes are a testament to our decades of working in the profession. We have defended people accused of crimes in Snohomish and the surrounding counties for many years.
If you find yourself in need of legal assistance, request a consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys.