In the past, many people in need of an experienced criminal defense attorney would find competent counsel by talking to co-workers and friends. The days of hiring experienced attorneys through word of mouth are now almost over. Most prospective clients find their lawyer by searching the internet. Of course, every ad and website promises an experienced and aggressive defense. How do you determine who truly is experienced?
First, ask the attorney if they have represented people with similar charges. Ask if they have tried cases like yours. Inquire whether they have won trials with similar facts to yours. Request the case numbers of the trials they have had and won. Any experienced criminal defense lawyer will be glad to give you that information.
If you have a federal criminal case or expect to have one because a federal search warrant has been executed at your home or business, it is exceedingly important that you hire the right attorney. Ask any lawyers you speak to to tell you about the federal criminal trials they have won. Request the name of their former clients and the case numbers so you can research how many trials they have had and won in federal court.
An excellent way to investigate attorneys is to see what other attorneys - their peers - think of them. Several rating services receive votes from other lawyers and judges to determine who the best criminal lawyers are. Research Martindate-Hubbell, Best Lawyers, and Super Lawyers, just to name three. The best lawyers according to Martindale-Hubbell are rated "AV." The best lawyers are also listed in Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers.
Don't allow an attorney with a lack of experience to represent you when your liberty is at stake. Do your due diligence and hire an aggressive defense attorney with real experience winning trials.
