Law

How to Hire the Best Criminal Defense Attorney in Town

Published

1 year ago

January 14, 2022

The odds of you winning your case are as good as the lawyer you pick. If you or someone you know has been arrested, it’s important to know how to find a good criminal defense attorney in town.

A good criminal defense attorney can make all the difference in your case. They can mean the difference between jail time and freedom, and between a guilty verdict and an acquittal.

You want the best for yourself or your loved one, and that means finding an attorney who is knowledgeable, experienced, and passionate about defending their clients.

Keep reading to learn the attributes of a good criminal defense attorney.

Look for an Experienced Attorney

A good way to start your search is by looking for an experienced attorney who specializes in criminal defense. The more experience a lawyer has, the better they should be at representing you or your loved one throughout the entire case. If you want results that will last, this is how you’ll get them.

How many years of experience should you look for in a lawyer? It depends on how serious your case is. If the stakes are high, an attorney with at least 15 years of experience will be necessary to give yourself the best chance of winning.

If it’s a misdemeanor charge or something less severe, then a lawyer with only five years’ worth of criminal defense experience might do just fine.

Experience can also count in terms of the number of cases a particular lawyer has handled. The more cases an attorney has worked on, the better equipped they should be to handle yours with ease and professionalism.

An experienced attorney will be more likely to know how to defend your rights, how the system works, and how to handle any unforeseen circumstances. And that’s important, because you never know what might happen during a criminal trial.

Look at the Lawyer’s “Specialties”

When you’re looking for a good criminal defense lawyer, don’t forget to look at their “specialties.” Not all lawyers are created equal, and some may be better suited to defending clients in specific types of cases.

For example, some attorneys might specialize in DUI or drug-related offenses, while others might focus exclusively on white-collar crime. Still, others might have a lot of experience defending clients facing federal charges.

It’s important that you find an attorney who has extensive knowledge about the particular type of case you’re involved in. That way, they can start preparing for your trial right away and give you the best chance at winning.

You can find this information by looking at the lawyer’s website or biography. Many attorneys will have a summary of their experience, including detailed information about the types of cases they’ve worked on.

If you find an attorney who specializes in your type of case, then that’s good news for you! If not, keep searching until you do.

Specializations can also help when it comes to price and availability. Many lawyers will only take cases that fall within their “specialty,” so you might find one that is available and affordable.

Look for a Lawyer with a “Good Reputation”

Another thing to look for in your criminal defense attorney is a good reputation.

While this might not mean that much when it comes time to negotiate fees, good reviews can make all the difference during the case itself. For example, suppose you’re facing DUI charges and find an experienced lawyer with positive online reviews from previous clients. In that case, they should be able to handle your case quickly and professionally.

How do you know if a particular lawyer has good reviews? You can check out their website or social media pages. Many lawyers these days have websites that list testimonials from previous clients, along with pictures and videos of them talking about their cases on camera or in front of a group of people.

You can also check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against the lawyer in question. However, keep in mind that not all negative reviews are valid, so you should consider everything before deciding.

Finally, it’s always a good idea to ask around for referrals from friends and family members who might have had experience hiring criminal defense attorneys in the past. They could point you in the right direction or recommend someone they know and trust.

Consider Communication

Simply put, good communication means that you and your lawyer will be on the same page. This is important during the entire course of your case, from start to finish.

If you can’t get in touch with your lawyer when you need them, or if they’re not returning your calls, then that’s a problem. It could lead to frustration and even more stress later on.

For your criminal defense attorney to do their job properly, they need to communicate with you effectively. That way, you’ll always know what’s going on and what to expect next.

Make sure to ask potential lawyers how often they plan on communicating with you, and whether or not they have time for an initial consultation. You might also want to ask what types of communication they prefer (phone, email, or text) and whether you can contact them outside of normal business hours.

Communication is an important part of the job for criminal defense attorneys, so make sure yours will be good at it. Don’t feel shy about asking as many questions as needed to get the answers you need.

You will want good communication throughout your case, and it’s good to start on the right foot by figuring out how often that will happen during your initial meeting with them.

Look at the Cost

It’s important to remember that not all criminal defense attorneys are created equal. Some will charge more than others, depending on several factors, such as how much experience they have or how specialized their practice is.

That being said, you don’t want to base your entire decision on cost alone. A good lawyer who charges more might be worth the investment if they can get your case dismissed or reduce the penalties you’re facing.

Remember, it’s always better to ask about fees upfront, so there are no surprises later on.

Many lawyers offer free consultations, so you can meet with them in person and discuss your case before making any decisions. This is a good opportunity for you to get information about their rates.

Also, consider the type of payment structure they use. Some lawyers might prefer to be paid a percentage of the total settlement, while others could require payment upfront or hourly.

Be sure to ask about payment plans and any additional fees if you have trouble paying them on time.

Consider Your Attorney’s Personality

Of course, experience is important. But so is your attorney’s personality and style of representation.

You want an attorney who will represent you the right way—aggressively or calmly, depending on the situation, but always professional and with a good attitude.

If they aren’t good at handling stressful situations in their personal life, they might not be the best criminal lawyer for you.

Some people might prefer an aggressive criminal defense lawyer who will go toe-to-toe with the prosecutor in court. Others might want more passive representation from someone good at negotiating and getting good deals for their clients.

Either way, you must find an attorney whose personality meshes well with your own. You’ll be working closely with this person for months, or even years, so it’s important to make sure you’re compatible.

Get a Free Consultation

Once you’ve done your research, set up an in-person consultation with any attorneys who look good on paper. This is the best way to see if they are good for you or not, and it will give them time to check out whether you might be good for them as well.

During this meeting, make sure to ask every question that’s important to you about their past experience and personality. If anything doesn’t sit right with you during the interview, keep looking until something does feel like a good fit.

Afterward, if all goes well, you’ll have found someone who shares similar values and goals, while also being able to defend you in court competently.

A lawyer who is quick to give you a free consultation is likely confident in their abilities and willing to let potential clients judge for themselves. This is a good sign, especially if the lawyer has good reviews from other people.

But if they are quick to charge for a consultation, be wary. This could be a sign that they are more interested in making money than winning your case.

Local Courts Experience

One of the most important things to look for in a good criminal defense lawyer is experienced with local courts.

If your case goes to trial, you’ll want an attorney who knows all the judges, prosecutors, and police officers in your area and how they operate. They should also have a good relationship with these people. This could help sway their opinion in your favor during negotiations or at trial.

Attorneys who regularly practice in certain courts are usually better versed in the local laws and procedures than those who don’t. This means they can work faster and more efficiently on your case, which could lead to a better outcome.

Enthusiasm

When you talk to an attorney, be sure and look for enthusiasm.

You want someone passionate about their work and good at it. This person with good communication skills can easily explain the complicated legal system in terms of a layperson’s language.

A good lawyer will also have enough energy to continue working on your case through all phases of a trial. That should be from pre-trial prep and depositions right up until sentencing or acquittal, if that’s what happens instead. If they start losing steam halfway through, find another lawyer before things worsen.

Finally, ask how recently they’ve handled cases like yours. If there are no similar examples, this could show that either the attorney is inexperienced or isn’t good at marketing themselves.

Trust Your Instincts

Above all else, trust your instincts when it comes to finding a good criminal defense attorney.

If something doesn’t feel right, or if you get the feeling that the lawyer is only interested in making money off of you, then move on to the next one. You’re going to be entrusting this person with your freedom and future. So make sure you find someone you can truly trust.

Instincts are good indicators of the potential success of a relationship. So, don’t be afraid to trust your instincts when looking for good criminal defense attorneys.

Success Rate

If you’re looking for good criminal defense attorneys, make sure that the lawyer has a good record of success. Look up their past cases and ask them about what they have done in those scenarios to achieve an acquittal or reduced sentence on behalf of clients.

A good attorney will always show off this information with pride, instead of being ashamed of it. They will also give you good examples of what they have done in the past that is similar to your current case.

If an attorney doesn’t have any good stories to share or a good record, move on and find someone who does. A lawyer with a poor success rate will likely not do well on your case.

If you want to shorten this process, find a criminal defense attorney here.

Explained! How To Find a Good Criminal Defense Attorney

Finding a great criminal defense lawyer isn’t easy. But if you follow these tips, you should be able to find someone who is the best fit for your case and how it will play out in court.

We hope this article has shown you how to find a good criminal defense attorney. To find more tips and guides, keep browsing our blog.

Law

Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Determining Liability in a Rideshare Accident

Published

1 day ago

March 21, 2023

molly famwat

Ridesharing apps have made it easy for people to travel, which is why there are several users. However, there are chances that drivers and passengers can get into vehicle accidents, as millions of trips happen every day. According to the Phoenix Street Transportation Department, the city’s road network was nearly 4,800 kilometers in 2009 and is expanding. More lanes result in more traffic, which raises the risk of accidents. In 2021, in Phoenix, there were around 40,833 car accidents reported.

If you have faced any unfortunate incident, rideshare accident attorneys in Phoenix will stand by you and ensure you get financial compensation. In Phoenix, one can get the minimum insurance amount of $50,000 per accident, $25,000 for bodily injury, and $15,000 for property damages.

Insurance companies use several tactics to avoid paying compensation; however, the lawyer ensures these companies do not take advantage of the situation. Below are the complete details that you must know about ridesharing accidents.

Who is Liable?

Drivers for Uber and Lyft are categorized as independent contractors. It means they might work under a contract, and the company might not employ them. So, if they are under contract, it is their responsibility to maintain the vehicles, and this does not come under the employer-worker’s compensation scheme. If proven that it is the driver’s fault, the company will eventually pay the driver’s liability through their insurance policy.

In Arizona, Uber and Lyft have insurance plans covering property damage and bodily injuries. However, drivers must ensure their insurance is up to the mark.

There are always three parties involved in rideshare insurance coverage:

Rideshare company
The driver
The passenger

It depends on the accidents, how they took place, and three scenarios that can occur:

If the accident occurs when the application is not turned on, it is the responsibility of the driver’s insurance to cover the damages, not the companies.
If the accident occurs when the driver operates via application, the company’s commercial insurance will be applied.
If the accident is caused due to the passenger’s negligence, then the passenger’s insurance has to cover the damages.

How is Liability Determined?

If one is involved in a ridesharing accident, the liability is determined by confirming the following:

If the Uber/Lyft driver is responsible for the collision
If the driver was using the ridesharing app when they got involved in the accident
If other parties have contributed or are involved in the accident.

How Can an Uber Accident Lawyer Help?

The Uber accident lawyers and the ridesharing attorney help you understand the best course of action. They will help you get the maximum compensation and determine who is responsible for the accident. Since they know the rules and regulations, they provide the best advice.

In an Uber accident, knowing which insurance to work with can be challenging. You might have to file for several claims, so to avoid errors, the lawyer should manage the filings and negotiations.

Conclusion

Being involved in a vehicular accident can be challenging and complicated; however, when it consists of a ridesharing company, it adds another level of complexity. These enormous companies can use several strategies to reduce the compensation or try to avoid paying it. So, it is advised that if anyone is involved in a ridesharing accident and suffers injuries, they must go to an experienced lawyer that can help in making a solid case.

Law

Shoplifting In Austin: How To Find An Austin Criminal Defense Attorney

Published

3 days ago

March 19, 2023

sylvia J

Shoplifting is a behavior that can affect almost anyone—kids, superstars, teens, and sleep-deprived new parents alike. It can be easy to forget that you’ve picked something up and then leave the store, only to be asked to follow a security professional to a small room for questioning. Virtually anyone can find themselves facing shoplifting charges for the first time.

If you have recently been accused of shoplifting, it is important not to let the commonplace nature of your situation lull you into a false sense of security. A conviction for shoplifting could affect your reputation, your criminal record, and even your freedom temporarily. This is one situation in which a “do it yourself” approach will not cut it. The time to contact an experienced shoplifting lawyer in Austin is now.

Shoplifting Penalties In Austin, Texas

Whether you were caught shoplifting at The Domain, the 2nd Street District, or your neighborhood convenience store, the potential penalties you’ll face in the event of a conviction are the same. The category of charges by which your alleged wrongdoing will be punishable is determined by the value of the goods that you have been accused of shoplifting.

Class C Misdemeanor if the value of the shoplifted property is worth $100 or less – Punishable by a fine up to $500.
Class B Misdemeanor if the value of the shoplifted property is more than $100 but less than $750 – Punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
Class A Misdemeanor if the value of the shoplifted property is $750 or more but less than $2,500 – Punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
State Jail Felony if the value of the shoplifted property is $2,500 or more but less than $30,000 – Punishable by 180 days to two years in state jail and a fine of up to $10,000.
Third Degree Felony if the value of the shoplifted property is $30,000 or more but less than $150,000 – Punishable by two to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
Second Degree Felony if the value of the shoplifted property is $150,000 or more but less than $300,000 – Punishable by two to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
First Degree Felony if the value of the shoplifted property is more than $300,000 – Punishable by five to 99 years in prison or life imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.

Because the stakes of a shoplifting conviction risk a term of imprisonment for any crime that involves shoplifting more than $100 worth of property, it is imperative to seek the guidance of an experienced Austin criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after being accused of shoplifting.

How To Find An Austin Criminal Defense Attorney

Whether you’re searching for an Austin misdemeanor lawyer, a secondary shoplifting defense lawyer in Austin, or an Austin felony theft defense lawyer, you’ll need to seek out a law firm that is highly reputable, has a track record of success, and has extensive experience with shoplifting cases specifically.

Not all criminal defense lawyers approach their practices in the same way. Don’t work with a criminal defense mill that is more concerned about representing as many clients as their lawyers can handle than securing each client the most favorable outcome possible under their unique circumstances. The outcome of your case could affect everything from your ability to get schooling, a job, or your ability to remain free from jail. Don’t settle for subpar representation. Research your options and meet with any attorney you’re interested in working with to ensure their approach meets your needs.

Your Shoplifting Case: What To Expect

Every shoplifting case is unique. As a result, your lawyer will need to carefully examine the circumstances of your situation to build the most vigorous possible defense on your behalf. Depending on the severity of your charges, this strategy will begin to play out as soon as your arraignment.

Texas law indicates that only someone who has unlawfully appropriated property with intent to deprive the owner of that property can rightfully be convicted of theft. This means that unless a prosecutor can prove – beyond a reasonable doubt – that you intended to steal the property in question, you can’t properly be convicted of shoplifting. Your lawyer will likely engage in significant negotiations with the prosecution to get your case dismissed or to mitigate the consequences that you would face in the event of a conviction when you did not intend to steal the property that you allegedly shoplifted.

If initial negotiations don’t result in the prosecution dropping the charges against you, your lawyer will explore the possibility of filing pretrial motions to suppress any evidence that may have been collected in violation of your Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable search and seizure. If relevant evidence can be successfully suppressed, the prosecution may have no choice but to drop or minimize the charges, as they may be unable to make their case successfully without that evidence.

Finally, if these efforts haven’t produced their desired results and taking a plea deal isn’t in your best interests, your attorney will vigorously fight for your rights in court.

Contact A Knowledgeable Austin Criminal Defense Attorney For Personalized Guidance

To learn more about shoplifting laws in Austin, Texas, and how these laws will apply to your case uniquely, schedule a confidential, risk-free case evaluation with Cofer & Connelly, PLLC, by calling 512-991-0576 or contacting the firm online. This reputable law firm is well-known for its knowledgeable legal practitioners and their ability to secure favorable client outcomes. They have more than 65 years of combined experience aggressively defending the rights of Texans like you.

Shoplifting may be a commonplace crime, but that doesn’t mean that the effects of a conviction will manifest in your life in simple, uncomplicated ways. Because your reputation, well-being, and even your freedom could be on the line, the time to seek experienced, professional legal guidance is right now.

Law

Guide to Dealing with a Car Accident Incident

Published

6 days ago

March 16, 2023

molly famwat

Guide to Dealing with a Car Accident Incident (3)

Even for the most seasoned drivers, being involved in a car accident may be terrifying and frightening. Regrettably, there are thousands of incidents involving cars every day on our roadways, and the National Safety Council estimates over 4.5 million automobile accidents annually in the United States alone. Understanding how to react appropriately in case of an automobile accident is crucial. In this article, we’ll walk you through the procedures to take after a vehicle accident.

7 Ways to Deal with Car Accident Incident

Knowing how many car accidents per year occur, emphasize the importance of being prepared to deal with such an incident. Here are some ways you can deal with a car accident:

1. Stay Calm and Check for Injuries

Be cool and look for injuries as soon as possible after an automobile collision. Make an instant call for medical assistance if someone is hurt. If you’re not injured, check on the other people involved in the accident and see if they need medical assistance.

2. Move to a Safe Location

If your car is in the way of traffic, turn on your hazard lights and pull over to the side of the road. If the accident is minor and both cars are drivable, move to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot. If the cars are not drivable, do not attempt to move them and wait for the authorities to arrive.

3. Call the Police

No matter how serious the collision is, you should still call the police. An accident report will be filed by the police, which might be useful when handling insurance claims. Be sure to give the police an accurate account of what happened and avoid admitting fault.

4. Exchange Information

It is important to exchange information with the other driver involved in the accident. Inquire about their name, contact information, and insurance. It’s also a good idea to get in touch with anyone who could have witnessed the crash.

5. Document the Accident

Photograph the accident scene and the damage to both vehicles. While handling insurance claims, these images can be helpful. Also, recording any injuries you or the other motorist experienced during the collision is crucial.

6. Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible following the incident. Explain what happened and provide the other driver’s contact information if you have it. You can rely on your insurance provider’s full support throughout the claims filing and repair scheduling processes.

7. Seek Legal Advice

There may be a need for legal representation if you sustained injuries in the collision or if the other driver accused you of causing the incident. If the matter ends in court, a lawyer can explain your options and argue on your behalf.

Things to Be Careful While Dealing with a Car Accident Incident

The consequences of a car crash can be incredibly demanding and distressing. As well as taking the above-mentioned measures, you should also keep in mind the following details:

The first rule of signing anything is ensuring you fully grasp and agree with its contents.
Refrain from discussing the incident on social media, as doing so could hurt your case.
Retain all accident-related paperwork, such as doctor’s notes, police reports, and insurance policies.

Tips to Get Consultation for This Incident

If you’re unsure of what to do after a car accident or have questions about the legal process, there are several ways to get advice:

● Talk to a personal injury attorney

Many attorneys offer free consultations, where you can discuss your case and get advice on how to proceed.

● Talk to a legal aid organization

Some organizations offer free or low-cost legal assistance to individuals who cannot afford an attorney.

● Research online

Many online resources can provide information on the legal process and what to do after a car accident. However, be sure to verify the credibility of any sources you use.

Conclusion:

Over 4.5 million accidents occur annually in the United States due to automobiles. Maintaining composure and taking the necessary actions after an automobile collision are paramount. Check for injuries, get to safety, report the incident to the authorities, swap information, take pictures, call your insurance company, and consult an attorney. Following the advice in this manual, you may go back on the road as soon as possible after an auto accident and in better condition.