5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney

When you are facing charges, the attorney you choose matters more than almost any other decision. A short, honest conversation up front tells you a great deal.

Experience and focus

Ask how often they handle cases like yours and in which courts. Familiarity with the specific charge and the local system is worth more than general experience.

A good attorney will be candid about likely outcomes rather than promising a result no one can guarantee.

Communication and cost

Find out who will actually handle your case and how you will be kept informed. You should never feel left in the dark about your own matter.

Get the fee structure in writing — flat fee, hourly, what is included and what is extra — so there are no surprises later.