If you have ever been in any type of legal trouble, you are aware how complex and difficult the legal system can be. There are multiple documents that need to be filed by specific dates. Most defenses rely on previous legal cases. Although it is not illegal, it is almost impossible to not use an attorney for a legal case. With so many options for attorneys then, how do you choose one that has your best interests in mind and will represent you in the most qualified and professional way?
Choose based on charges
You may be surprised to learn that you should choose your attorney based on the crime you are being charged with. There are endless areas of the law, each which requires a specific set of knowledge. Although there are general lawyers available for hire, they may not be the most qualified for your specific charged case. For example, if you are being charged with sexual assault, you will want a sex crime attorney. Sex crime attorneys are familiar with specific sexual assault cases and provide you with the confidentiality and experience that you require.
Choose based on safety
If you were the victim of a crime, you may be worried about your safety during the trial. There are likely to be angry parties involved. This is common in domestic violence cases and issues of where you will stay are brought up. Your safety could be the difference in hiring an inexperienced general lawyer versus hiring a domestic violence or sex crime attorney who has resources to keep you safe. Most assault attorney services involve some type of plan to protect the victim during the trial.
It is even possible that you are facing safety concerns if you were not the victim. If you were charged with a crime that harmed others, you may be worried about retaliation. You also may be concerns about privacy, especially if the case is a high profile one. About 10,000 people in the United States may be wrongfully convicted of serious crimes each year. Ensure that your safety is protected, regardless of the side of the case that you are on.
Children?s interest
Children are a common part of many legal battles unfortunately. More than 3 million children witness domestic violence in their homes every year. These children may also be subject to other concerning activities, including neglect, drug and alcohol usage, abuse, and criminal records. In fact, children who live in homes where there is domestic violence also suffer abuse or neglect at high rates (30% to 60%). Hiring an attorney who knows what they are doing is important in protecting your children?s lives.
Professionalism
Graduating from law school does not guarantee professionalism. However, professionalism is crucial in the court of law. It ensures that your case receives the level of respect it should. It also keeps your crime confidential and out of the media?s hands. The highest level of legal representation often involves an assault attorney or sex crime attorney that is both experienced and professional, both in court and out of court.
Well known and respected
Although having a well known attorney is not as important as other factors, it can be helpful in a legal case. A highly respected lawyer may be needed for some types of legal battles, such as sex crimes with a sex crime attorney. The content of the legal case is already touchy and somewhat controversial, making it important to have representation that is highly respected. If you choose to go with an attorney that is not as well known, just be sure that they do not have any negative attachments to their legal name. It could possibly hurt your case.
How the legal system is set up is the not the easiest to follow. You would likely have to attend law school for many years to even understand a simple trial process. When you are facing legal trouble of any kind, it is important to carefully select your attorney for this reason. Find someone who is professional, experienced in your specific charges, and pays attention to other important aspects of the case, like the safety of everyone involved.
