You don’t need just any attorney to help you when you need a criminal defense lawyer or someone to stand beside you for your DWI; you need a reputable attorney. There are about 1,315,561 of these professionals nationwide, according to Practice Panther. Ask the right questions to ensure you work with the right professional. These tips will help you find the right professional for the job.
1. Fee Structure
The first thing you should ask during your consultation is about the fee structure. Some attorneys will take a case for a flat fee. Others will have a fee structure that involves a specific price for court appearances, phone calls, etc. A reputable attorney will be honest and transparent regarding fees.
2. Experience
Always ask an attorney about previous experience regarding cases like yours. For example, if you have a DWI, you want an attorney with prior experience defending people with a DWI charge. You can also ask them how long they have been an attorney, which can indicate how much experience an attorney has.
3. The Outcome
Always ask an attorney for their professional opinion on your case. Explain the situation and ask them about possible outcomes. A reputable local attorney can tell you an opinion based on the evidence and other case details. However, remember that this may change as the prosecution presents more evidence.
4. Communicate
A reputable attorney knows communication between a local attorney and clients is essential. They’ll ensure that you both understand any communication fees, such as hourly phone call fees. A reputable lawyer will also ensure you’re both on the same page. Ask them how they prefer to communicate, such as by email or text message.
5. Transparent
Pay attention to the way that an attorney asks questions. They should be transparent in their answers instead of giving vague answers to your questions. Avoid hiring lawyers who refuse to answer questions about experience or a fee structure. However, some lawyers will be vague regarding their opinion on the outcome of your case because they don’t want to mislead you.
Hiring a local attorney can be challenging, but we make it easy. Our team specializes in DWIs, criminal defense, civil litigation, and more. Contact us at the Law Firm of Patrick Short when you’re ready to schedule a consultation.