Five Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are facing criminal charges, hiring the right criminal defense attorney is essential. A skilled and experienced lawyer can make the difference between a favorable outcome and a devastating one. However, not all criminal defense attorneys are the same, and it is vital to ask the right questions before choosing one.
Below, The Law Office of Edward J. Hesketh, LLC, discuss five essential questions you should ask your criminal defense attorney:
1. What experience do you have in criminal defense cases?
Hiring a criminal defense lawyer with ample experience handling cases like yours is crucial. Ask the attorney how many years of experience they have in criminal defense, as well as how many cases they have handled and won. This information will give you a good idea of their level of expertise and the likelihood of success in your case.
2. What is your strategy for handling my case?
It is important to have a lawyer you can trust to work in your best interest, and understanding their approach is crucial. Be sure to ask about the possible outcomes of your case, the attorney’s priorities, and their overall approach to helping you succeed.
3. What fees do you charge?
Make sure you know what fees to expect and when you will be charged. Ask for a breakdown of the billing process and whether the attorney charges a flat price, hourly rate, or contingency fee. This transparency avoids surprises and misunderstandings later on.
4. What communication method do you prefer?
Communication is vital between you and your attorney to ensure a successful outcome. Ask your attorney if they prefer phone calls or email communication, how long you should expect to wait for a response, and how proactive they are in providing progress updates. Inquire about the frequency of updates and if you should expect to receive reports as changes or events happen.
5. What are the potential outcomes of my case?
It is important to understand the potential consequences of a criminal charge, including fines, jail time, or community service. Ask your attorney about the possible outcomes specific to your case. Specifically, will you likely be found guilty and have to serve time or be given parole or probation? It’s essential to have a clear and honest idea of where you stand and the potential consequences to help you make informed decisions.
Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer You Can Rely On, Turn to The Law Office of Edward J. Hesketh, LLC in New Jersey.
If you’re looking for a New Jersey Supreme Court Certified Criminal Trial Attorney, look no further than Edward J. Hesketh. Mr. Hesketh has handled over one thousand criminal cases in private practice as a solo practitioner and is here to properly address and litigate the charges you are facing.
To schedule a free case consultation, contact us today at (908) 243-0800 or complete a quick form. We look forward to speaking with you!