3 Essential Questions to Ask Your Criminal Defense Attorney

If you're facing criminal charges, you will want to have the strongest and most complete defense possible. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will be your best friend in crafting an effective legal strategy and getting you the best possible result. You need to know the right questions to ask so you can get the best representation. Below are three essential questions to ask a criminal defense attorney before hiring him/her.

What to Ask Before Hiring a Criminal Lawyer

1. What Is Your Experience With Cases Like Mine?

The law is a vast subject area, even in a specialized field like criminal defense. You want to find an attorney who is experienced not only in criminal law and procedure, but in cases similar to yours. This ensures they have the knowledge and experience necessary to handle your case.

How long have they been practicing criminal law? What is their trial experience? What is their felony experience? What is their experience in the criminal courts in your area? How often do their cases go to trial? These are all questions you can ask. However, do not expect the attorney to reveal details about past cases, as that might compromise client confidentiality.  Most attorneys will only talk in the most general terms about past cases. This is not due to reluctance, but rather to ethical duties. They cannot give references, as that would compromise client confidentiality. Most people don’t want to talk about the fact they have been arrested, even if they got a favorable result.

2. What Are My Options?

A lawyer cannot and will not provide specific advice until they've thoroughly investigated the case, and will only do so after having been retained. They must have a complete and objective picture of what transpired. They will provide you, at a first consultation, with general advice. You will have an idea of how they would approach the case and how thorough they are in their analysis.

Only after a case is investigated should you decide whether to seek a plea agreement or go to trial. You can discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the case at the consultation, and possible ways the case could unfold. The more information the lawyer has, the better. Do not shade the facts. Be completely open and honest Your attorney cannot properly represent or advise you unless they have all the facts. It may surprise you to know that an experienced criminal defense attorney does not care whether you are guilty or innocent. They are only focused on giving you the best legal defense they can, to ensure you are treated fairly by the government and the Court.                                                                                            

3. Who Will Handle My Case?

A criminal case is an intense experience. You will want to feel comfortable reaching out to your attorney for advice and support. Find out if they will be personally handling your case. Learn how to keep in touch with your attorney. Ask about their preferred method of communication, such as phone calls, emails, or texts.

Asking these questions is the first step in getting the criminal defense you need. Thomas A. Corletta, Attorney & Counselor at Law, is here to help. He has nearly 40 years of experience representing clients in the Monroe County, NY, area. He offers legal services in criminal and family law cases, as well as DWIs and bankruptcy. He does not delegate cases and personally handles each case. Call (585) 546-5072 or visit his website to schedule a consultation.