10 Questions to Ask Your Defense Attorney

When you've been charged with a crime and are looking for a defense attorney, you want to make sure you feel comfortable and confident with the advocate you choose.

2013-01-13

MIAMI, FL, January 13, 2013 (Press-News.org) When you've been charged with a crime and are looking for a defense attorney, you want to make sure you feel comfortable and confident with the advocate you choose. You should not be afraid to ask your defense attorney questions about their qualifications and what you can expect during the process.

1. How long have you been a lawyer?
A conviction can impact the rest of your life. You want an experienced defense attorney to handle your case.

2. Have you always practiced criminal defense?
Just because the lawyer is practicing criminal defense now, doesn't mean they weren't practicing copyright law last week. Make sure your defense attorney has defended many clients.

3. Are you familiar with the kind of charges pending against me?
Does your defense attorney have experience with this kind of criminal defense? If a large percentage of their clients haven't faced similar charges, you may want to look elsewhere for representation.

4. What happens if I plead guilty?
The defense attorney should be able to tell you the likely consequences for entering a guilty plea.

5. What happens if I go to trial?
Risk of a lengthier sentence often increases if you opt to go to trial instead of taking a plea bargain. Your defense attorney should be able to tell you what the consequences of conviction at trial are.

6. Can you walk me through the whole process?
Whether you have been charged with a violent crime or a DUI, there is a process for your prosecution. Your defense attorney should be able to tell you what the process looks like from arraignment through trial.

7. Do you have time to represent me?
If this defense attorney has three high-profile murder cases going to trial, she may not have a lot of time to spare for your case. Get a feel for this attorney's workload.

8. Who else will work on my case in your office?
Defense attorneys often have partners, associates, or paralegals that will help with your case. Make sure you know who will be working on your defense.

9. How will you charge me for your representation?
Defense attorneys may charge you a flat fee or an hourly rate. Make sure you understand what the rate is, what is included, and when you are expected to make payment.

10. What other related expenses will I have to pay?
Will there be court costs, fines, or filing fees? Make sure you ask. These little costs can add up.

If you are looking for a defense attorney in Miami, West Palm Beach, or Ft. Lauderdale, please visit the website of The Cochran Firm South Florida for more information at http://cochranfirmsouthflorida.com.

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