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How to Choose a Good Defense Attorney
If you are facing criminal charges, you should seek legal representation right away. When searching for New York criminal lawyers, you’ll want to find someone who has a background in criminal defense.
Searching for New York Criminal Lawyers
You can start by doing an Internet search. If you don’t find any lawyers in your town or city, widen your search to include nearby cities.
Following are some criteria to help you narrow down the list of potential lawyers:
- Research potential candidates and law firms using the Internet. See if there are any informational pieces published by the lawyer or firm, FAQ’s or articles. Do any of these resonate with you?
- Ask your friends, family and colleagues if they have heard of the lawyers on your list and find out what their impression is.
- Think about any particular needs that you have. For instance, if English is your second language, would it help to have a bi-lingual attorney?
- See if there has ever been any publicity about the attorneys on your list by searching through your local newspaper’s online archives.
- Look for the lawyers’ advertisements online, in the phone book or newspaper. If the lawyers do advertise, evaluate how they come across.
- Find out if the lawyers on your list are in good standing by reaching out to your state bar association, either online or on the phone.
Good New York criminal lawyers are likely to be very busy, so don’t eliminate one from your list if he or she couldn’t meet with you right away.
Evaluate the lawyer’s staff with the understanding that high-quality lawyers will have quality employees. A courteous and professional staff is a good indicator of the quality of the law firm.
Many lawyers post information about their case histories. You’ll want to find someone who has tried cases similar to the one you are facing and has been in practice for at least a few years.
Find out if an attorney is affiliated with any professional associations such as the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. There are several similar organizations at the state level.
The majority of criminal cases are settled through plea bargaining. It could be helpful to your case if the lawyer already has a working relationship with the prosecutor on your case. With this in mind, you’ll want to select a lawyer who has tried several cases in your jurisdiction.
Before You Hire Someone
Pay attention to your gut instincts and use common sense. You will need to work closely with this person, so it’s important to feel comfortable.
You need to understand what is involved when you hire a lawyer. You should ask to see a copy of the attorney’s retainer agreement and ask questions until you understand what is involved.
Collect copies of the firm’s promotional materials and crosscheck those against other sources of information.
If you would like to speak with New York criminal lawyers about your pending criminal case, please call the office of Frederick L. Sosinsky at (212) 285-2270.