How to Choose the Best Attorney for Your New York Criminal Case
Contents
How to Choose the Best Attorney for Your New York Criminal Case
Dealing with a criminal charge in New York can be an incredibly stressful and confusing time. Finding the right attorney to handle your case is crucial for getting the best possible outcome. This guide covers key factors to consider when selecting an attorney for your New York criminal case.
Define Your Needs
The first step is determining what exactly you need in an attorney. Consider the following:
- Type of Charges – If you are facing felony charges like robbery or assault, you need someone highly experienced with handling serious cases. For misdemeanor charges like shoplifting or minor drug possession, you may opt for an attorney with lower fees.
- Trial Experience – If your case may go to trial, prioritize attorneys with extensive litigation and courtroom experience. Be sure they have a proven trial record, not just experience negotiating plea deals.
- Specialization – Attorneys may specialize in certain areas of criminal law, like DUI/DWI cases, white collar crimes, or domestic violence. Match specialties with your charges.
- Budget – Rates in New York City may be $500+ per hour. Carefully weigh cost against experience – the cheapest option may not be the best. Public defenders are free but typically overloaded.
Knowing your exact needs helps narrow your attorney search.
Research Candidate Attorneys
Cast a wide net when researching criminal defense attorneys in New York. Sources to find candidates include:
- Referrals – Speak to friends, family and colleagues who had positive legal experiences. Referrals can lead you to trustworthy attorneys.
- New York State Bar Association – Includes attorney profiles statewide across various specialties and locations.
- Avvo – Features user reviews and disciplinary records. Helps identify top local criminal lawyers.
- Lawyers.com – Offers attorney listings searchable by location and legal focus area.
- Best Attorneys of America – Showcases attorney ratings, achievement records and area of expertise.
Compile a list of 3-5 candidate attorneys from these resources based on criteria important to your case.
Vet Short List Candidates
Once you have a shortlist, vet each attorney thoroughly by:
- Verifying credentials – Double check licenses, education, certifications and staff size on websites like Avvo and NYSBA.
- Reviewing case records – Search online for news articles and case records showcasing their defense capabilities.
- Reading reviews – Check for client testimonials and reviews on Google, Facebook, Avvo and other platforms. These offer insight on responsiveness, legal knowledge, rates and more.
- Comparing experience – Specifically review experience dealing with your charges, courts and prosecution. An attorney who specializes in cases just like yours may be best equipped to mount the strongest defense.
Thorough vetting ensures you select a high quality attorney matched to your criminal matter.
Christine Twomey
2024-03-21
Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.
Brendan huisman
2024-03-18
Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!
Guerline Menard
2024-03-18
Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️
Keisha Parris
2024-03-15
Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.
Taïko Beauty
2024-03-15
I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence.
Thank you team!
Anthony Williams
2024-03-12
Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.
Loveth Okpedo
2024-03-12
Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience
Bee L
2024-02-28
Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.
divesh patel
2024-02-24
I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way.
Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me.
I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence.
Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.
Interview Attorneys
Once you vet your shortlist, set up initial consultations. Most attorneys offer free first meetings. This lets you meet them, ask questions and gauge compatibility. Key discussion areas include:
Case Strategy
- How would they defend against your specific charges and mitigate penalties? Do they take an aggressive or conservative approach?
- What plea bargain outcomes could you realistically expect? Understand likelihood of avoiding jail time.
- Would your case actually go to trial? What’s their trial record in similar cases?
Experience and Resources
- Confirm years handling your charges along with win/loss rates. Ask for examples of positive case outcomes.
- Who exactly would be working on your case? Will a senior partner or more junior attorney handle most aspects?
- Does the firm have adequate financial resources and staff to fully commit to your defense?
Communication Style
- Do they clearly explain legal concepts and set expectations? Do you feel comfortable asking questions?
- Does their style work for you? Find someone who makes you feel supported.
- How responsive are they? Will you get timely case updates as major developments occur?
Use the initial meeting to directly ask anything important to you in choosing the right criminal attorney. Don’t feel rushed – weighing options carefully leads to better legal outcomes.
Compare Costs
The final step is comparing attorney costs and fee structures. Every attorney calculates fees differently, so get clear rates in writing. Typical fee structures include:
- Hourly – Most common structure bills by hours worked, often in 6 minute increments. Rates vary from $100-$1500+ per hour depending on experience.
- Flat – Single fixed cost for defined services like reviewing police reports, making court appearances etc.
- Retainer – Pay a lump sum upfront to cover estimated hours. May need to provide additional payments as hours accrue.
- Contingency – Attorney only paid if case succeeds. Rare in criminal law.
- Pro Bono – Free legal services for those unable to pay. Limited availability.
Be sure to understand exactly what services are covered and ask about additional costs like hiring expert witnesses or investigators. Get fee specifics in a signed engagement letter.
Compare costs against attorney experience, resources and track record handling cases like yours. This helps ensure you get sufficient legal defense capabilities while staying within your budget.
Choose Your Attorney
After thoroughly researching options, vetting candidates and directly interviewing attorneys, you will be in a good position to make an informed hiring choice.
Key factors to finalize your decision include:
- Case strategy aligning with your goals
- Confidence in their experience with your charges
- Communication style providing needed support
- Fees fitting your budget
An attorney well matched to your case and personal needs will provide you the best chances of a positive legal outcome. With charges filed and court dates approaching, be sure to secure legal representation promptly.
Resources
For further guidance on finding the right attorney, check out the following articles:
- Tips for Choosing a Great Criminal Defense Attorney in New York – Reddit thread with advice specific to NYC cases.
- Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Lawyer in New York Before Hiring Them – Avvo guide covering key attorney discussion points.
- Public Defender vs Private Attorney in New York – Outlines pros and cons of using a public defender.
Securing experienced legal representation tailored to your criminal case can relieve stress and tilt the odds in your favor.