Every month, people who face criminal charges or believe they are under suspicion search for “good lawyers near me.” They often get many results. It can be difficult to distinguish one defense lawyer from the next if you don’t know what you’re looking for.
Below, we discuss why it is important to choose the right criminal defense lawyer and how to pick a lawyer who is best suited for your case.
Why It’s Important to Choose the Right Criminal Defense Lawyer
The outcome of your criminal case can affect the rest of your life. A bad outcome can result in years behind bars, costly fines, long periods of parole, and a criminal record that follows you for years to come.
You need a lawyer who understands the high stakes involved and is willing to fight to protect your rights. If you choose a lawyer who is inexperienced or only looks for one possible outcome, you may pay for that decision through a poor result. Your future is on the line, so the decision you make for your criminal defense lawyer is a crucial one.
How to Find the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me
If you are searching for a criminal defense lawyer, look for the following traits:
Responsiveness
You want to be able to reach your lawyer when you have questions. I understand the importance of your case, and I’m there when you need me.
Handles Criminal Cases Exclusively
Some attorneys are considered “general practice” lawyers, meaning that they take on cases involving various areas of the law. For example, they might handle criminal defense cases, along with family law, personal injury law, and business law cases. However, these types of lawyers may not have the same breadth of knowledge and experience that comes with focusing on just one area of the law. At the Law Office of Joel M. Mann, we focus exclusively on criminal defense. You benefit from our laser focus.
Experience with Local Courts
You will want a lawyer familiar with the local courts and prosecutors who are familiar with them. I represent clients in all of Nevada’s state and federal trial and appeals courts, so I often interact with other members of the legal community you might come in contact with. With almost 20 years of handling criminal cases, I have come to know all of the players involved in the criminal justice system.
Legal Knowledge
Many criminal defense lawyers charge by the hour. The more time they put into your case, the more money you will likely have to pay. However, you don’t want to pay for them to obtain a basic understanding of the law, such as what a warrant covers, how to prepare for a bail hearing, or what the possible penalty for a crime might be. They should know the basics and be able to answer your questions about areas of the law where they have experience.
I have a strong understanding of the legal issues that affect my clients. I also keep up with the latest developments through my memberships in the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, National College for DUI Defense, and Nevada Attorneys for Criminal Justice.
Clear Fee Structure
When you decide to hire a lawyer, you will want to know how much it will cost you. You should get a clear fee structure in a written fee agreement. I provide a flat fee structure that allows you to know how much my services will cost without worrying about what the final cost will be. I also provide a free consultation so that you can speak to a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer before you pay anything.
Enthusiasm
Good criminal defense lawyers are passionate about protecting the rights of the accused. They demand that law enforcement obey the very laws they are sworn to uphold. They ensure prosecutors are held to the highest standards of the American legal system. When you decide to hire me, I listen to you to get to know you and understand your goals. I protect your rights at every stage of the case.
Your Defense Is Individualized and You Have a Say
Since it is your life on the line, you should have a say about what direction your case goes in. I can advise you of your various options throughout the process. How you decide to move forward will ultimately be up to you.
How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Some ways to choose a criminal defense lawyer are:
Ask for Referrals
Your first step to finding a good criminal defense lawyer is to ask your friends, family members, or colleagues for a referral to a good defense lawyer.
Reviews from Reputable Sources
You can also check reputable sources for referrals. The Law Office of Joel M. Mann is rated 10.0 Superb on Avvo and an Avvo Clients’ Choice in DUI Defense and Domestic Violence Representation (2014).
Contact Joel M. Mann Today
You can also contact the Law Office of Joel M. Mann for a free consultation to discuss your case and get to know me better. I look forward to speaking with you.
