When you consult with a criminal attorney, there are several important questions you should be sure to ask. A criminal attorney in Bakersfield, CA, explains.
What Is Your Experience in Handling Cases Like Mine?
Not all criminal cases are the same, and attorneys have experience in defending different types of cases. Ask about how many cases of a similar type as yours they have defended, and what their success rate has been.
Finding out what their background and experience is will be very important to the success of your case. Having an attorney with experience in your type of case in the local court system will also be very helpful in developing legal strategy or in negotiating.
What Are the Potential Outcomes of My Case?
Ask the attorney to explain the possible outcomes of your case, from the likelihood of your case being dismissed to potential penalties, such as jail time, probation, or fines. Your lawyer will also be able to tell you if there is any possibility of a plea bargain and if there are any factors that might help to reduce the charges.
How Will You Defend This Case?
Ask the attorney to describe how they plan to approach defending you. You should hear whether they have a solid defense strategy that would be best in your case. Do they plan to challenge the evidence? Do they intend to call more witnesses to defend you or clarify the circumstances? Do they hope to challenge the credibility of the witnesses? Or do they see negotiating a plea deal as your best option?
How Much Does It Cost to Be Represented by You?
Ask the lawyer to give a clear breakdown of the costs of representation. Are there hourly rates? Is there a flat fee? Is there a retainer fee (a fee just to retain the lawyer’s service)? Ask if the lawyer has a payment plan option, and ask if they expect there to be additional expenses, such as from calling expert witnesses or hiring a private investigator.
How Often Will You Communicate with Me?
Ask the lawyer how often communication will happen. Be sure to find out whether the lawyer will communicate with you directly or whether their legal team will reach out to you with information about your case. It’s very important to know beforehand how often communication will take place. You want to hire a lawyer who communicates clearly and often, since the case could affect future outcomes in your life.
How Long Will the Case Take?
Ask the lawyer to give you a general idea of the timeline of your case. Of course each criminal case will vary in the amount of time it takes before the outcome. However, a lawyer will be able to give you a rough idea of the timeline and how long each stage might take. Having a general idea will help you in managing expectations.
If you are facing criminal charges and need legal advice or representation, reach out to Humphrey & Thompson Attorneys at Law in Bakersfield, CA.
