The best way to defend yourself or a loved one against criminal charges is to hire a criminal lawyer. Hiring the right one is critical to ensure you get the best outcome. You need to know three things before hiring a criminal lawyer.

1. Different Charges, Different Lawyers

Criminal law is vast. Many codes, charges, degrees of charges, and more affect how a case is defended. Criminal charges should be a consideration when you are choosing a lawyer. For example, some criminal lawyers are not well-equipped to manage felony cases.

Look for a lawyer with significant experience handling cases like yours. For example, if you're facing DUI charges, find a lawyer who has successfully defended DUI cases. Make sure you choose a lawyer that has the right experience. A good lawyer will not misrepresent their experience level. They will tell you honestly if your case is something they can manage.

Often, a lawyer will refer you to a lawyer who can handle your charges because they have the right experience. You must know that not every criminal lawyer can manage your case. When you meet with the lawyer for the consultation, they will ask questions about your charges. Be honest in your responses. This initial conversation is for your benefit. The lawyer is gauging whether they have the skill set to represent you.

2. Transparency in Fee Schedule

You must fully understand the fee schedule you agree to when you hire a lawyer. A transparent fee schedule should clearly outline costs, including added service fees. Some lawyers charge a flat rate fee to defend against certain charges. For example, handling a DUI charge may be a flat rate fee. However, flat-rate fee structures are not always possible.

Other lawyers charge by the intensity of the criminal charge. For example, it may be more costly to hire a lawyer to manage a felony charge than it would be to hire a lawyer to defend against a misdemeanor. There is more work involved in defending against a felony than there is in a misdemeanor. You are also more at risk if you have been charged with a felony. You must understand the fees right from the start.

In other instances, a lawyer may charge an hourly fee for their services. In all cases, you must understand the fees and the structure. There may be additional fees for services like private investigators to find witnesses. Any potential additional costs should be discussed before signing the retainer agreement. Price transparency ensures you have enough in your budget to afford them before working with them.

3. Preferred Communication Method

Some lawyers prefer to text or email, while others prefer scheduled conferences to discuss your case. It would be best to get clarity from the lawyer about how they will communicate information about your case. It is best to use the preferred form of communication. During your consultation, ask the lawyer what you can expect regarding updates about your case and how they prefer you communicate with them. Honest communication is essential to getting the best outcome. You must be responsive and honest with your lawyer. Your lawyer is not there to judge you – they are there to represent you. Being honest is your best option. Answering honestly will ensure that your lawyer doesn't run into any surprises about your case they are not prepared to handle. It is also important to remember that you are not the only client your lawyer is representing. It would be best to allow your lawyer time to respond to questions.

A good lawyer is responsive. They don't take weeks to get back to you. Along with that, you should be responsive to them, too. There may be instances when your lawyer may need information from you. It is advisable that you respond as quickly as possible because that information will likely affect your case.

According to IBISWorld, the criminal lawyer market size is worth about $18 billion as of 2023. These lawyers provide valuable services. They protect your rights after a criminal charge. They negotiate on your behalf and use their network to get you the best outcome. If you have been charged with a crime, you need a lawyer. Call Peters & Nolan, LLC today to get the representation you deserve.