Being embroiled in any legal issue can be stressful, and facing criminal charges is a particularly intense experience. This type of case presents the possibilities of harsh penalties and a recorded criminal conviction for the rest of your life. An effective defense attorney can help you fight the charges and advocate for your rights. The following guide outlines three crucial traits a lawyer should have.

What to Look for in a Defense Attorney

1. Trustworthiness

Trust is an essential component of the attorney-client relationship. Defense attorneys handle sensitive information and communicate with their clients to develop a strategy and examine the range of potential outcomes. Look for a lawyer who provides the information you need and guides you through the steps of the case and trial as they occur.

2. Negotiating Skills

Unlike civil litigation, criminal cases cannot be settled out of court. However, there is still room for defense attorneys to negotiate on their clients’ behalf. In these situations, they may seek lesser charges or a reduced penalty. Find a lawyer who is comfortable negotiating with judges and prosecutors and can identify opportunities for a plea deal or lighter sentence.

3. Established Relationships With Law Enforcement

A defense attorney must understand how the local justice system works, including how the police department operates and what evidence judges and juries find the most compelling. This helps the lawyer build a solid case and speak in your defense. Having established relationships within the system also helps defense attorneys connect with expert witnesses who can bolster your argument.

When facing criminal charges, trust The Law Office of Gregory G. St. John, LLC. For more than 40 years, Attorney St. John has been serving clients throughout the Waterbury, CT, region. Call (203) 759-0240 to schedule a consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, and visit the firm online to learn more about their legal services. Like the law office on Facebook for additional information.