How Do I Select The Right Criminal Defense Attorney In New York?
Asked in New York, NY on July 31, 2024 Last answered on January 29, 20263 answers
If you or a loved one has been arrested, accused or charged with a crime or placed under police investigation, it is extremely important to find the criminal defense attorney best-suited to your needs immediately. For most people who have never been in trouble with the law before, it is natural to be uncertain what to look for when choosing a defense lawyer.
Finding the right attorney is vitally important to ensure that you get a full and tenacious defense.
The five most important things to look for in a defense attorney are:
- Experience
- Aggressive
- Responsive
- Reputation
- Legal Knowledge
Experience
Ideally, your attorney should have practiced criminal defense law in New York for several years and have dealt with situations like yours hundreds of times, if not thousands. A strong depth of familiarity with the law and how the criminal justice system really works gives them the ability to find the weak points in the prosecution’s case. It also helps your lawyer know how the local judges think.
Aggressive
Your lawyer should be a zealous advocate for your rights. The full weight of the government’s power is being lined up against you. The right defense attorney will fight the police and prosecution at each stage to contest false accusations and avoid an unjust result.
Responsive
An attorney who cannot communicate effectively with you is likely to make mistakes on your case. It is critical to work with an attorney that will keep you updated as your case progresses and involve you in all aspects of your defense.
Reputation
Over the years, a successful defense lawyer will have developed a strong reputation with prosecutors and judges. They will know that they are dealing with a powerful and capable defense attorney who will not let their client be railroaded.
Knowledgeable
Criminal defense law is complex and constantly changing. You need an attorney who knows the law, who keeps up on new developments, and who is prepared to defend you against any type of charges.
Act Fast
It is important to contact a defense attorney as quickly as possible. The sooner your attorney gets started, the sooner they can begin attacking the prosecution’s case. Also, bringing in your lawyer early in your case will help you avoid missed deadlines and other errors. Remember, your future is on the line. Choose the BEST representation possible.
Free Consultation The only way to know is to have meaningful conversations with potential attorneys. I always tell potential clients that anyone who promises a guaranteed result is just looking to get your money, because there are no guarantees in this business. Success is a combination of experience, talent and hard work so look to get a sense of who checks those boxes. At Konta, Georges & Buza we take a limited number of cases so we can give clients the attention they deserve, and put the work in to achieve the best possible outcome.
When it comings to selecting the right defense attorney, I usually advise people to do the same as when they are picking the right doctor, contractor, accountant, mechanic et. Ask your friends and family for recommendations, do your own research and meet with who you want to hire. Chose who you feel the most confident can handle your specific legal needs. DO NOT chose an attorney solely because they are the cheapest.
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