Criminal defense lawyers offer a very specific set of services. Unlike civil cases, where the maximum penalty is a hefty monetary fine, in a criminal case you could easily land behind bars if the verdict is against you. Due to the high risks involved, it stands to reason that you need an established attorney to handle your case. Why take a chance on something that could determine your entire future? Once your name enters the criminal record books, you might find yourself at a disadvantage for the rest of your life. Here are some important factors that you need to consider when hiring a criminal defense lawyer.
Experience
The most important factor that you should look for is experience. Established criminal defense lawyers in Ferndale, WA like The Law Offices of Michael K Tasker have plenty of experience in handling different types of criminal cases. An experienced attorney can figure out solutions and spot inconsistencies in statements and other documents that an inexperienced attorney might overlook. Obviously, an experienced attorney will charge a higher fee for their services; however, it’s a small price to pay if you want to avoid jail time!
Reputation
Established criminal defense lawyers also have a very strong reputation in the local legal circuit. They know other judges and members of the jury. While this is not enough to get you a favorable verdict, your lawyer’s reputation does play an important role. Judges will know that reputable lawyers come prepared and members of the jury who have seen the lawyer in court before will know what to expect. When you sit down for the preliminary meeting, you can discuss the past cases that the lawyer has fought to get an idea about their experience and reputation in the local legal circuit.
