Camden Criminal Lawyer: Ask a Lawyer the Right Questions Before Hiring

Often times, lawyers will provide a free or low cost consultation where you are able to discuss your case and your concerns. This is the most important part of your case. During this consultation, a lawyer begins to think of their legal strategy and you as their client are allotted the opportunity to see if this is the right lawyer for you. However, not enough people know how to tell if the lawyer they are speaking to is right for them. A lot of times, it boils down to asking the right questions.

Who is your typical client?

This question answers a lot for a potential client. If you have a criminal charge and the law offices most often represent those seeking Workers’ Compensation claims, it is highly unlikely they will get the same results for you as a lawyer who focuses on your type of charge.

How long have you been in practice?

Knowing how long your lawyer has been in practice and what type of cases they have worked in gives a good idea of what you can expect from them in terms of representation and support. If you facng a smaller charge, it will not be as important that your counsel has as much experience. However, if you are being charged with murder, it is wise to seek experienced counsel.

How many cases have you seen that are similar to mine? How many did you represent?

Experience goes a long way. Even if a lawyer has been practicing for over half their life, that experience may not be as useful if your charges are in an area in which they lack proficiency.

What are your fees and how do you bill?

Depending on your finances, some lawyers will be more of an option than others. However, a more expensive lawyer may be an option if they are willing to work with you when it comes to the bill. Asking open and honest questions regarding payment and fees will help avoid later frustrations.

How will I receive updates on my case?

This question can tell you a lot about a lawyer’s style of communication. For some, they would rather the law offices contact them while others like to be the one to call. You and your lawyer should be on the same page when it comes to how communication should be handled.

What do you think is the likely outcome of my case?

It can be very important to find out if your attorney thinks you have a good shot at winning your case. If they do not seem to have a good feeling about the case, it may serve better to find a lawyer who feels they can get a positive outcome. For some, there may not be a good outcome. In those cases, it is good to find a lawyer who can manage the poor outcome into your favor and reach a verdict that will have the least amount of impact on your future.

Do you have any conflicts of interest?

In every state, lawyers have an ethical obligation to let their current or potential clients know when they have a conflict of interest. Despite this obligation, a client should still ask the question. This question often pairs with asking what types of cases they have handled, as a prior legal case could serve as a conflict of interest for them.

Have you ever been accused of attorney misconduct?

While this is information that can easily be found online, it is important to ask in person. There may be good explanation for an alleged violation. As the client, you are entitled to know why there may have been a case against your lawyer.

Camden Criminal Lawyer Michele Finizio Answers All Important Questions Before Being Hired for Your NJ Criminal Matter

Getting charged with a crime is reason enough to be on edge; hiring legal representation should help alleviate those feelings, not make them worse. Camden criminal lawyer, Michele Finizio, is happy to answer any question a client may have before taking on a criminal case. Our team looks at all angles and important information regarding a case, and takes the pressure off the client to prove their innocence or reduce their charges. Contact us online or call 856-888-9059 today to find out how we can help.  We are conveniently located in Moorestown, New Jersey to serve clients throughout Burlington County, Camden County, Mercer County, Atlantic County and Gloucester County.