When you find yourself in legal trouble, one of the first things you need to do is hire a criminal defense attorney. While this might seem like a straight forward task, you must realize that not all San Diego criminal defense attorneys are created equal. Showy advertisements and television spots might be impressive, but more than mere name-recognition should go into such a critical decision.
After all, your choice in defense attorney could mean the difference between a jail sentence and your freedom.
Attorney Joni Eisenstein understands that hiring the right attorney can be a daunting experience. With the stress and fear that comes along with criminal charges, it can be difficult to focus your attention on making the right hiring choice.
The Law Office of Joni Eisenstein wants to make the process easier for you by offering five questions that you should ask when interviewing potential counsel. Considering these questions, along with others that are specific to your case, can help you make an informed decision with confidence.
Schedule your free consultation today. Contact Criminal Defense Lawyer Joni Eisenstein.
5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
Do you offer a free consultation?
It is critical that you trust and have confidence in the criminal defense attorney you choose. One of the best ways to get a feel for the lawyer is during your initial consultation. The consultation provides several benefits for you. It gives you a chance to determine if you feel comfortable working with the attorney, if there is clear communication and if you feel confident that they understand your case.
During the consultation, the attorney should also be able to provide you with some guidance and answer your more specific questions. Without utilizing the free consultation, you are running the risk that the attorney you chose is not the right match for you and your case.
Who will be handling my case?
In some medium and large firms, clients think they are hiring the big-name lawyer on the advertisements, only to learn that they are working with an inexperienced attorney. Or, your case is handled by a number of associates, paralegals and interns, which means that you aren’t getting the personalized attention that you paid for and deserve.
Before hiring a defense attorney, find out who you will work with from start to finish. If you are working with more than one attorney, request to meet them. Ideally, they will be present during your initial consultation.
What is your experience as an attorney, and how often have your cases gone to trial?
While you can hire any attorney you wish, it is recommended that you work with an experienced attorney, especially when your freedom is on the line. During your interview with any San Diego criminal defense attorney, be sure to ask them about their general legal experience as well as their experience working with the prosecutors in the courthouse where your case will be tried.
Another essential aspect of this question is how much trial experience they have. Some attorneys rarely try a case in court. If you believe there is a chance that your case will go to trial, you want to be sure that your attorney is skilled, comfortable and confident in the courtroom.
What is your experience handling cases like mine?
No matter how many years an attorney has been practicing law, they may not be an asset to you if they have zero experience trying cases like yours. When interviewing criminal defense attorneys, ask them how many cases they have handled that are similar to your case. Pertinent experience is a huge advantage to you because the attorney already has an understanding of the type of law and the best strategies to fight your case.
Even better, find an attorney who specializes in the area of law that you require. By hiring a specialist, you can feel more confident knowing that you have a real expert on your side, who also has a keen interest in the type of law involved in your case.
How much do your services cost?
Do not be afraid to ask about costs, fees and payment schedules during your initial consultation with a criminal defense attorney for your San Diego case. Firms handle payment in a variety of ways, and it is important to know the costs and fees upfront. It is no secret that hiring a great lawyer can get expensive, especially if you have a lengthy or complicated case.
Many criminal defense attorneys offer a fixed or flat fee. There may be additional fees if your case goes to trial. Understanding your costs upfront not only allows you to prepare your finances, but it gives you peace of mind knowing exactly what you are paying for and when.
Hiring a San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney
While we hope these questions give you a sense of the kinds of questions you should ask when selecting your San Diego defense attorney, these only represent a few of the concerns that should be addressed. Choosing the right attorney is a big decision. It is critical that you go into your initial consultation with a list of your questions and concerns about your case.
If you need to hire a criminal defense attorney in the San Diego area, schedule your free consultation with attorney Joni Eisenstein today. With her years of experience in San Diego courthouses, she knows the system and the strategies to get you the best possible outcome. With her honest, no-nonsense approach to your case, you can rest assured that you have the best counsel at your side.
Contact the law office of Joni Eisenstein today to learn more about her services and to schedule your free consultation for your San Diego criminal case.
If you are on the fence about hiring a defense attorney, stop thinking about it, and do it now
Hiring a criminal defense attorney like Joni Eisenstein can help you go from a place of uncertainty to freedom.