Being charged with a crime can be terrifying, especially for those with limited experience dealing with the criminal justice system. Depending on your charges, your entire future may depend on the criminal defense lawyer you choose to negotiate with prosecutors and speak for you in court. While this decision may seem daunting, the tips below will help ensure you get the representation you deserve.

3 Tips for Choosing a Criminal Defense Lawyer

1. Do Your Research

Ask friends, family members, or colleagues who may have dealt with similar situations whether they were satisfied with the service they received, and visit respected online sites like lawyers.com to gather additional candidates. Accountants, bankers, and attorneys who practice in other fields can also be a valuable resource, as they often have skilled criminal defense lawyers in their professional networks.

2. Interview Several Candidates

Because hiring an attorney is such an important decision, never hire the first law firm you visit. Instead, schedule consultations with at least three different attorneys, who will examine your case and discuss your legal options. Many criminal defense lawyers provide free initial consultations, allowing you to collect the information you need without financial risk.

3. Ask Questions

While a consultation gives attorneys the chance to evaluate your case, it also provides you with an opportunity to decide whether you want to work with a particular lawyer. At the consultation, find out how long they have been practicing law, and whether they have successfully defended clients in similar situations. Most importantly, don’t overlook the importance of personal chemistry. Criminal cases often have high stakes, and you’ll likely achieve the best outcome with a lawyer you like and trust.

Larry R. Koss Law Firm is a seasoned criminal defense lawyer with more than 40 years’ experience providing aggressive representation to defendants throughout Monroe, Orleans, Niagara, and Genesee counties. They know how important a criminal case can be, which is why every client receives individualized attention directly from their attorney. Visit their website to learn more about their background and expertise, or call (585) 637-3961 now for your free initial consultation.