According to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, there were 265,115 arrests in 2020. After an arrest, choosing an expert criminal defense attorney can make or break your case. An experienced defense attorney that fights by your side can help you walk free or get a lesser sentence. These tips will help you find one and ensure you don't accidentally wind up with an inexperienced criminal attorney.

Schedule a Consultation

Randomly picking an attorney from the vast array of defense lawyers online is too risky. Instead, taking your time when selecting an attorney to fight by your side is essential. Start by scheduling free consultations with attorneys. During the consultation, ask questions about their experience with cases like yours and their opinion. An experienced attorney will speak with confidence and be able to answer your questions.

Pay Attention to Specialities

Lawyers are known for specializing in specific areas. For example, a lawyer may specialize in family law, which means they handle cases like divorce and custody disputes. When searching for a lawyer, ensure that you choose lawyers that specialize in criminal defense. These attorneys are experienced in defending individuals accused of a crime.

Ensure They Are Responsive

It can be scary to call an attorney for days before a trial starts only to not receive a response. Before hiring an attorney, pay close attention to how responsive they are. Do they call back within a day? Do they schedule appointments soon, or is it impossible to speak with them? When an attorney is not responsive, it can be frustrating. Instead of hiring them, consult with other lawyers.

Read Reviews

If a client has a negative experience with a criminal attorney, they're likely to leave a negative review. People often feel compelled to do so to help other people save their money and time. If an attorney has many negative reviews, it's best to avoid them.

Check Their Fee Schedule

A trustworthy attorney will have a set fee schedule. They'll be able to tell you how much it will cost to start the case and how much they intend to charge for various things. For example, many attorneys charge a flat hourly rate for phone calls.

Finding an expert criminal attorney can be tedious, but it doesn't have to be. Our lawyers are experienced in criminal defense and ready to fight by your side. Contact us at Whitaker Law Office to schedule a consultation today.