When looking for a criminal lawyer, most clients will want to assess the lawyer's expertise in criminal law. It helps improve their confidence in the lawyer's services. Below are some questions to help you interview your criminal lawyer.
What Is Your Expertise?
Most criminal lawyers will specialise in specific aspects of criminal law. For instance, some deal with murders and manslaughter, while others could specialise in corruption. Check the lawyer's history to understand their success rate. Also, you could conduct some background research to check the lawyer's reputation and work ethic.
Can You Secure Bond?
More often than not, people accused of criminal offences get arrested. As such, your lawyer will work to help you secure bail. It may be challenging to secure bail if you are accused of a capital offence such as murder. However, your lawyer can quickly secure bail for lesser crimes. The arresting officer or magistrate will set the terms of bail. For example, you may have to the police station every week. In addition, the court could prohibit you from talking to the victims or leaving the country.
What Is The Possibility For Success?
As a rule, you must be truthful to your lawyer. It helps them understand the circumstances that led to the crime. Whether guilty or innocent, the lawyer will require a ton of evidence to defend you in court. For instance, if you are innocent, the lawyer could ask you for an alibi to prove that you were not present in the crime scene. The lawyer will evaluate the prosecution's evidence and strategy to predict a possible outcome. For instance, the judge will dismiss the case if the prosecution used underhand methods to arrest you. If the lawyer thinks that there is little chance of success (say there is video evidence of you committing the crime), they will negotiate with the prosecutor for a lesser sentence.
What Activities Affect The Outcome Of The Case?
Some behaviours will negatively affect the outcome of your case. For instance, people accused of assault should avoid violent confrontations. Preferably, you should avoid discussing the case with other people apart from your lawyer. Do not talk to the police or prosecutors in the absence of your lawyer. The prosecution could use an innocent statement as an admission of guilt.
When interviewing a criminal lawyer, inquire about their expertise, whether you can secure bond, the possible outcomes and any activities you should avoid before a ruling is made.
Share