If you or someone you know has been arrested, you must know your rights and what to do next. The first step is finding a criminal defense lawyer to help you through the process. But with so many lawyers, how do you choose the right one for you?
The right way to find a criminal lawyer
The right way to choose a criminal defense lawyer is to ask for recommendations and then schedule a consultation with the lawyer.
Another good way is to search for an established company like SoCal Criminal Law to know about services or if you need a first view about this type of specialist.
At the consultation, you should ask the criminal defense lawyer about his or her experience, success rate, and what he or she will do to defend you. You should also ask about the fee structure and whether the lawyer offers a free consultation.
Why you might want to get the best criminal defense
In case of an arrest, it is always best to have the best criminal defense lawyer possible. This step is vital because a criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the charges against you, the evidence that will be used against you, and the potential penalties you are facing.
The cost of a criminal defense lawyer
If you are wondering how much a criminal defense lawyer costs, the answer is that it depends on the severity of the charge, the amount of work required, and the lawyer’s experience.
For example, a first-time offender facing a misdemeanor charge may only need a few hours of the lawyer’s time and may be able to get by with a lower fee.
On the other hand, a defendant facing a felony charge may need the lawyer’s help for several months and will likely have to pay a higher fee.
What to do if you can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer
If you cannot afford to hire a private criminal defense lawyer, you may be able to get help from the public defender’s office. A public defender is a lawyer appointed by the court to represent those unable to pay for their own legal representation.
The public defender’s office will investigate your case and provide you with a lawyer if you qualify for their services.
What to expect in court
Now that you have hired a criminal defense lawyer, it is time to go … Read the rest