When facing criminal charges, it's crucial to start protecting yourself and your rights as soon as possible. This is where a criminal defense attorney comes in. Given that criminal cases deal with extremely serious matters, potentially substantial penalties, and issues of personal freedom and liberty, finding the right attorney is an essential part of your case. To help you hire the best person to represent you, below are three important questions to ask.

3 Important Question to Ask a Criminal Defense Attorney

1. How Long Have You Been Practicing Criminal Law?

Experience comes with numerous benefits that can help your case, so ask the lawyer about how long they've been practicing and handling cases like yours. Not only does experience signal an in-depth knowledge of the law, but it also means they have a track record of clients who can attest to their skills, and longstanding relationships with local judges, prosecutors, and other court officials. Just as you wouldn't want an inexperienced doctor performing open-heart surgery, an inexperienced lawyer may not have what it takes to handle the intricacies of your case.

2. What Approach Would You Take to My Case?

Different criminal defense attorneys utilize different strategies when approaching the cases that come across their desks. As a client, you have every right to know how the attorney you're considering prefers to work and what strategy they will employ. By asking this question, you can gauge how well the attorney's goals mesh with your own and whether the fit will be a good one. If both of you are more or less in agreement on how the case should be handled, you've found a strong ally.

3. How Often Will We Communicate?

You deserve to be kept in the know about all developments in your case. Be sure to ask how often you will be updated and by what means. Also, some larger firms may delegate certain aspects, or all of your case, to other lawyers in the office. If someone else is managing your case, find out who they are and how you can remain in touch with them.

The answers to these questions will ensure you have the strongest defense possible. For more than 22 years, criminal defense attorney David S. Washington, Jr., has represented Butler County, OH, clients in all types of criminal issues, including OVI arrests, drug charges, and manslaughter cases. Call (513) 751-1400 or visit his website to schedule a free phone consultation today.