Don’t depend on an overworked public defender’s office to take care of you throughout the process. Find someone who can be with you from start to finish, whatever that finish might be. You’re looking for someone to help you at an incredibly stressful moment in your life. Use the tips in this post to find the right attorney for you.

How a Criminal Attorney Can Help You

Most people don’t understand anything about the criminal justice system and how its wheels grind. Once you are arrested, you enter a world completely different from the one you usually inhabit.

Once engaged, a criminal attorney provides numerous critical services to help you navigate the legal system and offer advice at each step. Your criminal lawyer helps you by:

• Reviewing your criminal case
• Finding any problems that occurred during your arrest
• Offering legal advice
• Navigating the legal system
• Providing your legal defense
• Representing you in court
• Negotiating an alternative sentence
• Explaining sentencing details

Your attorney explores every aspect of the charges against you, the laws and circumstances leading to your arrest, and a review of the evidence. The goal is to have your case dismissed or reduced.

A lawyer scrutinizes the arrest process for problems from illegal searches to police misconduct. An unlawful search could make it easier for the prosecution to convict you, but an experienced criminal attorney can find those types of problems and use them to reduce your penalty or even have your case thrown out.

Representation in court is essential to bringing your case to the best conclusion possible. A lawyer understands the issues and knows how to address the court and the jury, telling your story and defending against any accusations from the prosecution.

There is so much more to a criminal case than an arrest and jail. You need someone who understands how everything works and can determine the best strategy to reach the most favorable outcome.

Learn how a criminal defense attorney can help your case. Get your free ebook today »

What Do You Need from Your Criminal Attorney?

Before starting your search, determine your particular needs.

• Do you need the charges dropped?
• Do you need to go to trial?
• Do you need a plea deal?

The qualities you require should drive your selection. Every attorney has particular strengths, even within the criminal justice system and Texas Penal Code. Find one whose strengths match your needs. 

If you aren’t sure what you need, most attorneys are happy to answer your questions and guide you to the appropriate person.

Develop a List of Local Attorneys to Investigate

In the age of the internet, it’s easier than ever to generate a list of providers in any field. Legal societies, state law boards, and other entities curate lists of attorneys you can search according to location and specialty. 

You can always start by searching “criminal lawyer near me.” Google is happy to provide a geographic list of attorneys matching those keywords.

Once you have a list of potential attorneys, start your investigation to determine which one is right for you. Here are some tips on how to narrow down your search:

• Read their websites. You can learn much about an attorney from their business website, including their service specialties and experience. A good attorney website also includes resources explaining certain legal system aspects and how the attorney can help. It should provide handy contact information and explain how you can get in touch.
• Read their blogs. How often do they post, and do the articles sound professional yet accessible? Reading attorney blogs and other resources can also guide you to the appropriate legal provider.
• Go beyond their websites. Search for information on their legal career. Can you find anything by searching their name?
• Read reviews. Client reviews will often tell you the real story of what it’s like to work with a lawyer. Check online reviews to see other stories.
• Reach out. Finally, contact those who made your shortlist. All should be willing to help, even if you don’t choose them. Many offer free information on an array of legal topics that can help you narrow your search.

Once you have a few attorneys in mind, contact them for a consultation; many attorneys will offer a free consultation to discuss your case. Use the interaction to determine if this is someone you can work with and who has your best interests at heart.

Choose an Attorney

Your progress through the legal system can be fast or slow, depending on your charges. Each case is unique and can be affected by several factors, including:

• The nature and complexity of the case
• The amount of preparation and research required
• The depth of the discovery phase
• The level of difficulty locating witnesses and evidence
• The number of hours required to provide a comprehensive defense

Simple robbery is less complex than a long-standing financial crime. You need an attorney who understands your case’s specifics and has the expertise to unravel every thread.

Are you facing criminal charges? Attorney Brett Podolsky can help »

How Much Does a Criminal Lawyer Cost?

The cost of your defense varies according to the same factors you use to select an attorney. Simple cases with fewer hours required may cost less than something more complex. However, a lack of funds shouldn’t stand in your way of engaging a capable criminal attorney.

Each attorney’s office should provide information on how they bill for services and the amount. Don’t be afraid to ask if they can estimate a cost for your case. You may qualify for a payment plan, and some lawyers charge on a sliding scale depending on the defendant’s ability to pay.

There is no reason you shouldn’t be able to find someone you can trust and afford. 

Consult with a Qualified Criminal Defense Attorney in Houston

You don’t need to forego the invaluable assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney. The Law Office of Brett Podolsky provides flexible payment plans that make it possible for you to hire an experienced lawyer to help you avoid a criminal record, jail, and financial penalties. 

Hire an attorney that aggressively investigates your unique situation and fights to protect your rights. Brett Podolsky is a former prosecutor with a unique view of the criminal justice system. Contact our office for a free consultation.