What you need to know before engaging a criminal lawyer in Brisbane?
If you have been convicted or charged with a criminal offense, you do not need to rush to the most expensive or well known criminal lawyer. Its crucial to understand they should be experienced and able to handle your situation.
The major mistake most people make when looking for a criminal defense lawyer is to go with the first name they come across. Sometimes they get so desperate they do not have the time to think. It’s common because being summoned is not an everyday thing. If it’s your first time facing criminal charges, it’s easy to be overwhelmed. Instead of just rushing about finding a good criminal lawyer, do your research.
Finding a reliable criminal lawyer in Brisbane
If finding a reliable criminal lawyer was easy you wouldn’t be out here on the Internet getting tips.
However, it’s not nearly impossible. Do your due diligence when speaking with friends or family members. If you do not know anyone who has engaged a criminal lawyer in the past, speak to your current lawyer to provide you with references.
It’s crucial that you do your research first. Visit them in person or check out the reviews which their previous customers have left on their websites. Look for reviews on Google and Yelp to get a better idea of their work ethic.
Questions to ask a criminal lawyer
- Sometimes you might not be aware of the exact criminal statutes you’re facing. When you speak to a criminal lawyer, they will review the arrest records and the incident reports. Ask the lawyer what charges have been pressed against you so they can start planning the defense strategy.
- Once you know what about the charges, the next matter you should know are the criminal penalties which apply if you are convicted. Whether you would have to pay a hefty fine or be on probation or face jail time. Knowing about your situation is essential and being aware of the worst case scenario helps you understand the battle ahead.
- Get assurance from the lawyer whether they will be directly handling your case. Some law firms usually send junior associates with minimal trial experience. You have to ensure you are being led by the lead lawyer.
- Find a law firm which is fluent in handling all sorts of criminal charges. Askk about their experience and get to know about their collaborations to ensure you’re making the right choice.
- Experienced criminal lawyers can spot vulnerabilities in the prosecutions case. Engage a lawyer who can understand the criminal charges against you and ensure they come up with a plan to strengthen your position.
- Ask them about their approach and strategy in defending your case. There are several pathways to reach a resolution. An experienced lawyer will present you with an outline as the step by step approach. Ask plenty of questions to understand their game plan.
- Find a lawyer who can assure you that they will not take shortcuts and will find exculpatory evidence for you. This will help construct an affirmative defense. Avoid lawyers with a passive approach to gathering evidence.
- Get to know about the risk and benefits of pleading guilty rather than going to trial. One must be aware that if you plead guilty you lose your legal rights. However, your lawyer will be better able to tell you what will work in your favor.
- Although no lawyer can guarantee an acquittal but they have the experience in knowing the odds against you. Ask them what are your chances of winning if you go to trial.
It’s crucial to hire the right criminal lawyer. Finding a lawyer immediately holds the case from going against you. They’ll ensure they’re able to find holes in the charges and can get them dismissed quickly through negotiation with the prosecutors. Go through Brisbane’s criminal lawyer options carefully.