If you’re accused of a crime, choosing a law firm is one of the biggest and most important decisions you’ll have to make. Because so much rides on this decision, take the time to explore your options and schedule consultations with at least three criminal defense attorneys before making your choice. Knowing what to look for will help ensure you get the representation you need.

5 Qualities You Want in a Criminal Defense Attorney

1. Extensive Experience

Criminal law is extremely complex, and attorneys who have been practicing for several years usually have the expertise to achieve the best possible results. Experienced attorneys will have the knowledge base to identify all of your legal options, predict the most likely outcomes of each approach, and predict problems before they arise.

2. A Track Record of Success

While past performance never guarantees future success, a criminal defense attorney’s history can give you an idea of the level of service they provide. When talking with lawyers, find out if they’ve recently handled similar cases, and what results they were able to achieve.

3. References

Any reputable defense attorney should be willing to provide the names and contact information for recent clients who were pleased with their services. Once you get their references, follow up and ask about their personal experience working with that particular law firm.

4. Experience Working With Prosecutors

When interviewing attorneys, find out whether they’ve previously dealt with the prosecutor handling your case. The most effective criminal defense attorneys have strong working relationships with prosecutors, which they might use to negotiate a more favorable plea agreement.

5. Strong Listening Skills

Your defense strategy may hinge on the smallest detail, so you’ll want an attorney who actively listens to their clients. Look for someone who asks a variety of questions and truly pays attention to your answers.

No matter what charges you’re facing, Gary C. Mitchell, P.C. is your best defense. Since 1977, this legal team has been standing up for the rights of defendants throughout Ruidoso, New Mexico, including hundreds of capital cases. Visit their website to learn more about their background and expertise, or call (575) 257-3070 to speak with an accomplished criminal defense attorney today.