Are you facing criminal charges and need legal assistance? While you can represent yourself in a criminal case, the judicial system is complex and overwhelming.
Hiring an experienced criminal lawyer is necessary to provide you with the best possible legal outcome. But not any lawyer will do. You must ensure a skilled and knowledgeable lawyer represents you. How do you know what to look for in a lawyer? And what questions should you ask to find the right one for your case? This post explains several things you should consider before hiring a criminal lawyer.
What Does a Criminal Lawyer Do?
A criminal lawyer will help you navigate the judicial system in several ways. Their education and experience allow them to understand the nuances of your case and the best way to represent you. Included in the many tasks criminal lawyers take on are:
- Offering guidance and legal advice
- Investigating allegations levelled against their client
- Negotiating plea bargains
- Reading and analyzing case documents
- Providing legal representation at trial, sentencing and appeals
What Experience Should Your Criminal Lawyer Have?
There are a variety of fields of law in which a lawyer may have experience. If you are facing criminal charges, you would not need a lawyer specializing in business law, where they handle company dissolution or formation, or an entertainment lawyer who deals with intellectual property rights and royalties.
Your lawyer must have criminal law experience as well as experience working on cases like yours. Before hiring a criminal lawyer, be sure to ask if they specialize in certain areas of criminal law, how long they’ve been practising and whether they have handled similar matters before.
Who Will Your Criminal Lawyer Work With?
Preparing for a criminal court case is a massive endeavour, and your lawyer will likely have support from paralegals, administrative staff, or other lawyers. As you look for a criminal lawyer, don’t forget to ask about their legal team and find out who else will be working on your case. It is essential that all team members are experienced and knowledgeable and that you feel comfortable working with them.
What Are Your Lawyer’s Fees?
A criminal lawyer’s fees will vary depending on their experience. Request information about a lawyer’s fees and their payment options to ensure you are hiring a lawyer you can afford. Researching and consulting with several lawyers before hiring one will help you understand reasonable fees and decide who is the right fit for your situation.
Can You Understand Your Lawyer?
The judicial system is rife with complex terminology, policies, and regulations. A skilled criminal lawyer should be an expert at navigating the court system but must also be able to explain all information to you clearly. If you struggle to understand your lawyer or do not feel comfortable with the solutions they are providing, they may not be the right fit for you.
Do You Need a Criminal Lawyer in Vancouver?
If you are facing criminal charges, you are likely feeling anxious and stressed. Hiring an experienced criminal lawyer who you trust can make all the difference in your case and improve your outcome.
If you need a criminal lawyer in Vancouver, contact us at the law office of Tom Doust. Tom Doust has over 20 years of experience successfully representing clients in all types of criminal matters. Call us now to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and determine if Mr. Doust is the right lawyer for you.
