NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED FEDERAL LAWYERS
How to Find the Best Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Philadelphia
|Last Updated on: 16th December 2023, 11:31 am
How to Find the Best Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Philadelphia
Facing federal charges can be an incredibly stressful and frightening experience. The stakes are high, and the federal criminal justice system can seem cold and intimidating. Having the right defense attorney by your side, someone who knows the federal system inside-out and will fight tirelessly for you, can make all the difference.
But finding the best federal criminal defense lawyer in a city as big as Philadelphia is easier said than done. There are a lot of options out there, and you want to make sure you choose someone truly skilled in federal cases, not just an average criminal defense attorney.
This article will walk you through the key things to look for so you can find the very best federal defense lawyer for your unique situation in Philadelphia.
Focus Your Search on True Federal Practitioners
The first thing to understand is that the federal criminal justice system is very different from the state system. The laws, the courts, the judges, the sentencing guidelines – it’s an entirely separate world.
So when searching for a federal defense attorney in Philadelphia, you want someone who focuses specifically on federal cases, day in and day out. Many criminal defense lawyers take both state and federal cases. But for the best experience and results, you really want an attorney who specializes in federal.
“The intricacies of federal law and the federal system cannot be overstated,” says Hope Lefeber, a top federal defense attorney in Philadelphia. “You want an attorney who lives and breathes this world, not someone who dabbles.”
Look for Substantial Federal Trial Experience
One of the key things that separates great federal defense attorneys from the rest is federal trial experience. Trials in federal court follow their own unique rules and procedures. So you want a lawyer who has significant firsthand experience mounting federal defenses in court.
“A strong federal background puts us in a position to quickly identify winning arguments and impactful strategies,” says Brian Zeiger, named one of the top federal criminal defense lawyers in Philadelphia. “There are no shortcuts.”
So when vetting federal lawyers, look for those who highlight substantial litigation and trial experience in federal district courts. The more cases they have taken to trial over their careers, the better.
Verify Stellar Credentials
You also want to double check the credentials of any federal defense lawyer you consider. High levels of education and federal clerkships are good signs.
“I clerked for the U.S. District Court prior to entering private practice,” explains NiaLena Caravasos, recognized as one of the best federal defense attorneys in Philadelphia. “That inside experience continues to serve me well.”
So look for federal clerks on attorneys’ bios. Also confirm they graduated from top law schools. This signals strong research, writing, and analytical skills that transfer nicely to federal criminal defense.
Ask About Their Network
Given how specialized federal law is, you also want to find a federal defense lawyer who has close connections with other top attorneys nationwide. Federal cases often involve activities crossing multiple jurisdictions, so it helps immensely for your lawyer to have trusted colleagues in other districts and circuits.
“I’ve built an extensive network of exceptional attorneys across the country,” says Michael van der Veen, named among the best federal defense lawyers in Philadelphia. “We regularly tap each other’s expertise which further strengthens the defense.”
So this is a good thing to ask about upfront – does the lawyer have close working relationships with other federal practitioners? Can they tap top experts nationally if needed?
Review Case Results and Client Reviews
At the end of the day, you want to see proof that a federal defense attorney gets results. Comb through their website and independent attorney rating sites to find:
- Specific case results they have achieved
- Client testimonials
- Independent peer and client ratings/reviews
“We have compiled an extensive record of success stories and grateful client testimonials,” says Dr. Nick Oberheiden, founder of a prominent federal defense firm in Philadelphia. “We encourage prospective clients to review.”
Seeing positive past outcomes and feedback directly from other clients is very reassuring. Of course no lawyer wins 100% of cases – but you want to see a strong overall track record of securing dismissals, acquittals, and charge/sentence reductions.
Assess Communication Style
Last but certainly not least – pay close attention to how well you communicate with a prospective federal defense attorney. You want someone who listens, answers all your questions, and makes you feel comfortable discussing sensitive case details.
“I see myself as not just an attorney but a counselor,” says Hope Lefeber. “I make it a priority to address every client concern.”
This sort of compassion and transparency is so important when your freedom is on the line. Evaluate communication carefully across initial consultations and gauge whether the lawyer’s style meshes well with yours.
Finding the best federal defense lawyer in Philadelphia takes research, diligence and care. But taking these steps will set you up for the strongest defense possible. And having the right attorney by your side can make all the difference during such a challenging time.