Bad things can happen to good people in the blink of an eye. No matter what circumstances led to your current predicament, if you are facing criminal charges in the State of New Jersey, then you need an experienced criminal defense attorney you can trust.
Many lawyers will claim to be the best in their state, region, or criminal practice area – like most consumer products or services, this is just marketing. Knowing more about how to find a quality attorney will help you locate the best criminal defense lawyer for your case.
Starting the Search for a Qualified Criminal Defense Attorney
The starting point with any legal matter is typically the initial consultation – the process of finding a criminal defense attorney is no different. We offer free initial consultations to each client that we meet with. Although some argue against free legal consultations, it is a standard practice of many respectable law firms.
The initial consultation is a great opportunity to ask questions regarding your criminal matter. A good criminal lawyer will discuss your individual circumstances as well as the severity of the charges you are facing and the possible penalties involved.
Lastly, the initial consultation is an excellent time to ask your lawyer about his or her legal and professional credentials. You can find out what areas of law they specialize in as well as past experience with handling legal issues similar to your matter.
Selecting a Criminal Defense Attorney
After your initial consultation, it is time to make that final decision and retain legal counsel. Some clients end up retaining the services of the first criminal defense lawyer they speak to. For others it may take meeting with a few attorneys before making a decision. Whatever route you decide to take, it is important that you feel confident with the criminal defense attorney you select.
It is also important to be honest with any attorney that you meet with during this selection process. Although it may be painful or embarrassing to fully disclose every single detail of your case, it is a vital process. Your lawyer is not there to judge you – they are there to help mount your legal defense.
It is also important to remember that any attorney you meet with for a free consultation has a legal obligation to keep your information confidential. Whether you retain the services of the criminal defense attorney you meet with or not, a free consultation constitutes attorney-client privilege.
