Being charged with a crime in Texas can be daunting. While you might feel a sense of disorientation, it’s important to take immediate steps to find a criminal defense attorney. Having a lawyer on your side might make all the difference in your case.
Tips on choosing a criminal defense lawyer
Most people who get arrested don’t immediately have a criminal defense attorney in mind, especially if it’s their first arrest. However, you need to act quickly and find someone who can defend you to the best of their ability. The following tips can help you choose your criminal defense lawyer:
• Avoid automatically choosing a public defender: Public defenders are readily available, but they’re not the best choice when you face criminal charges. A private attorney may be more helpful due to their depth of knowledge and expertise. They are also more vested in you as a client.
• Ask around: You may want to ask people you know if they know lawyers who can represent you. If you have any friends or family members who are attorneys, that’s even better. If they don’t have experience in criminal law, chances are that they know other lawyers who do work in that area.
• Search online: While searching online can generate many criminal defense attorneys in your area, it’s not always the best method. However, if you have no choice but to find your lawyer online, always view their reviews from previous clients. It can give you a better idea of whether they’re worth hiring.
• Don’t assume a higher fee means a better attorney: Avoid choosing a lawyer simply because they charge higher fees.
Other things to keep in mind
Always use your common sense and go with your gut when you’re searching for a criminal defense lawyer. You can also interview a few choices and ask them questions. Once you settle on your top options, you can settle on the best one for your needs.
An attorney may be able to get the criminal charges against you dismissed or reduced. Their responsibility is to protect your rights and represent you before a prosecutor and judge.