One of our main practice areas, criminal law is one of the most important things we do. Should you find yourself in need of a criminal attorney – a most unfortunate turn of events – it’s imperative that you choose one that has the experience necessary to represent you well.

Things to Consider When Hiring a Criminal Attorney

Having a skilled, aggressive criminal defense lawyer on your side may be the difference between a prison sentence and a reduced or dismissed criminal charge. When searching for the right criminal lawyer, it’s important to take into account the following considerations:

1. A criminal conviction can affect your future.

A criminal conviction, even if it seems minor, can haunt you for the rest of your life. Having a criminal record may affect your future social, educational and career opportunities. That is why it is crucial to hire an experienced criminal law attorney who will thoroughly investigate your case and aggressively fight to get your charges reduced, if not dropped altogether.

2. Don’t waste time. Time is freedom.

If you have been charged with a crime, don’t waste time by waiting around to see what happens. In most cases, the sooner an attorney gets involved in a criminal investigation, the better the results will be for the defendant. An experienced criminal defense attorney will evaluate every detail and every shred of evidence to find out exactly what happened. The longer you wait, the higher the chance of the evidence becoming contaminated or altered or key witnesses forgetting exactly what happened.

3. Hire an attorney that specializes in cases involving your charge.

It is important to hire an attorney that specializes in defending the rights of individuals charged with your specific crime. For instance, if you are arrested for drunk driving, it is important to hire a qualified, experienced DUI attorney who understands the laws associated with driving under the influence and will be able to identify any loop holes that will help get your charges reduced or dismissed.

4. Hire an attorney familiar with local court customs and procedures.

It is critical to hire a criminal defense attorney who is familiar with the local court customs and procedures where you were arrested. Local defense attorneys will also be familiar with local prosecutors and will have a better chance at negotiating a deal to reduce your charges or lessen your sentence.

5. Open communication is key.

It is important to have open communication with your criminal defense attorney, beginning with the initial consultation, so you have a clear, realistic understanding of the situation and your possible punishment. When choosing your attorney, make sure you feel comfortable with him or her before making a commitment to move forward.

6. A criminal defense attorney can save you money.

A criminal conviction can cost a lot of money in fines, penalties and restitution. That is why it is important to have a qualified criminal defense attorney on your side who may be able to get your charges and fines reduced.

7. Even if guilty, a criminal defense attorney can still help you.

Even if you did commit the crime and all the evidence points to you, it is imperative to contact a criminal law lawyer who will serve as your advocate. After thoroughly investigating the details of your case and negotiating with the prosecutor, it is highly likely that a criminal attorney will be able to get your charges reduced and your sentence lessened.

OWI

Ever heard the phrase, “There but for the grace of God go I?” Well, it kind of sums up getting charged with OWI. It can and does happen to anyone – no matter who you are, how much money you make or whether you have a PhD or dropped out of high school. And an OWI conviction can have serious consequences. If you get one, you’re going to need good legal representation. A good OWI attorney can help:

Assess your legal situation.

We can help you understand what you are up against and the fines you may be required to pay. We have a lot of experience with OWI matters and know the process inside and out – including some options that a public defender may not tell you.

Explain the consequences.

The consequences of an OWI vary greatly depending on the nature of the offense and we will be able to explain how those consequences apply to you such as (1) harsher punishments for those arrested with BAC limits over .08, (2) special laws for underage drivers arrested for OWI, (3) possible community service or plea bargaining, (4) overlapping jurisdiction of Courts and the state’s Motor Vehicle licensing department to suspend or revoke your license and (5) a conditional license that allows you to use your vehicle to get to and from work.

Manage the process.

Dealing with the BMV is a frustrating and time consuming nightmare. We can help you manage the process by completing the required forms; making phone calls; scheduling and/or representing you at a BMV suspension hearing, and making other necessary arrangements.

Represent you in court.

We have plenty of experience with the ins and outs of the courtroom and we may be able to obtain a lesser sentence for you if your situation allows it. We know the personnel involved and what arguments work best with them.