Being accused of a crime is one of the most frightening and life-changing events. No matter your legal trouble — misdemeanor, felony, or more complicated criminal case — the right Michigan criminal defense attorney can mean the difference between a favorable and unfavorable result. You must choose the right attorney, who will be your facilitator through this legal process, advocate for your rights, and strive to achieve the best possible outcome, learn more here. This is how to select the best criminal defense attorney in Oklahoma City for your case.
1. Familiarity with Your Kind of Case
Criminal defense attorneys do not all practice the same branches of law. If you are looking for a lawyer in Oklahoma City or anywhere else, avoid working with an attorney who does not have experience handling the particular type of criminal charge that you are facing. If you happen to be facing DUI charges, then you must seek out an attorney who has ample experience with DUI defense. In the event you are charged with a white-collar crime, find an attorney focused on fraud, embezzlement, or financial crimes. The greater the specialization, the more likely your attorney is to know what laws and defenses are relevant to your case.
2. Reputation and Track Record
The reputation and history of a criminal defense lawyer are the most crucial steps in finding the appropriate lawyer. Look for reviews online, any testimonials from previous clients, and/or any disciplinary records with the Oklahoma Bar Association. Also, check their success rate with cases like yours. An attorney who had success working similar cases with a history of getting clients out similar to yours is more likely to be able to handle your case appropriately.
3. Personalized Attention
When you are dealing with criminal charges, you deserve a lawyer who approaches your case with the seriousness it deserves. Smaller firms can offer a personal feel for a practice that larger law firms or high-volume practices may not be able to maintain. In your first meeting, inquire as to the firm caseload and whether you are working directly with an attorney or a paralegal or an associate. You want the attorney who represents you to have his or her eye on your case.
4. Understanding of Oklahoma Law
Criminal law is state-specific, and you want an attorney who knows Oklahoma criminal justice law. A criminal defense lawyer in Oklahoma City who handles many cases will understand how the local courts operate, how particular judges tend to rule, and what defenses are most effective in the area. Understanding the local information can make a huge difference in how effective your defense will be.
5. Approach to Your Case
Every criminal defense attorney approaches a case differently. Some want to try cases and others want to work great deals. In your consultation, communicate what you are looking for and inquire about how the lawyer intends to work.
Hiring the right Oklahoma City criminal defense attorney is an important step in obtaining the best resolution for your situation. Having decided on the type of attorney that will best fit your needs, you can move on to narrower criteria such as experience, reputation, communication skills, and how they plan to go about your case before getting them retained for them to work on your behalf representing your interests and fighting for your rights. So, do not rush while choosing the lawyer and you should select an attorney who is skilled but also makes you feel comfortable and confident throughout the legal process.
