8 Questions to Ask a Criminal Defense Attorney

Your Guide to Choosing the Right Advocate for You & Your Case 

Facing criminal charges is a stressful and often overwhelming experience. You need someone on your side who understands the law, the court system, and most importantly, your rights. Choosing the right criminal defense attorney can make a world of difference in the outcome of your case, and your overall experience and confidence as you progress through the case. But how do you know which attorney is the right fit for you? It starts with asking the right questions. At Berry Law, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of key questions to ask a criminal defense attorney during your initial consultation.

1. What is Your Experience With Cases Like Mine?

Every criminal case is unique, so it’s important to find a criminal defense attorney who has experience handling cases similar to yours. Don’t be afraid to get specific – ask about their track record with charges like yours, their familiarity with the specific laws involved, and if they’ve handled cases in the same court where your case will be heard. 

2. How Will You Approach My Case?

Good criminal defense attorneys will have a clear plan and strategy for handling your case. They should be able to explain their approach to you in a way that you understand, outlining potential defenses, what some common plea bargain options look like in cases like yours, and the likelihood of going to trial. Ask them what their initial steps would be in building your defense and what kind of challenges they anticipate. They should be able to give you a gameplan if you decide to hire them. 

3. What Are the Potential Outcomes of My Case?

While no attorney can guarantee a specific outcome, they should be able to provide you with a realistic assessment of the potential consequences you face based on the charge or charges you are facing, any criminal history you may have, and other factors that can play a role in case outcome. This includes understanding the range of possible penalties, the impact on your criminal record, and any potential collateral consequences, such as employment or housing implications. 

4. How Will You Communicate With Me Throughout the Process?

Communication is key in any attorney-client relationship. Make sure you understand how the attorney prefers to communicate (phone, email, in-person meetings) and how often you can expect updates on your case. Don’t hesitate to ask about their availability and how quickly they respond to client inquiries. Some attorneys make a practice of responding same-day so long as they are not in trial, out of town or otherwise in other previous commitments. Others can take days or weeks to respond. Make sure your attorney can commit to you a level and frequency of communication that you are comfortable with. 

5. What Are Your Fees and How Do You Structure Payments?

Legal fees can be a significant concern. Be upfront about your budget and ask for a clear explanation of the attorney’s fees, billing practices, and payment options. Inquire about retainers, hourly rates, and whether they offer payment plans. It is also important to know what the attorney will commit to do in terms of work ethic, communication and litigation, and what their history of success is, as those things can have a huge impact on the cost required to defend your case.  

6. What Should I Expect During the Legal Process?

The criminal justice system can be complex, confusing, and sometimes, takes much longer than you may have expected. A good attorney will take the time to explain the process to you, including the different stages of your case, your rights at each stage, and what to expect in court. Ask about potential hearings, motions, and the overall timeline of your case. 

7. Do You Have Any Concerns About My Case?

This is an opportunity for the attorney to be candid with you about any potential challenges or concerns they foresee. Their honesty and transparency can help you make an informed decision about your legal representation. It also shows you they’re being straightforward and realistic, not just telling you what you want to hear. 

8. What Are My Options if I Can’t Afford an Attorney?

If you are facing financial hardship, ask the attorney about alternative fee arrangements, payment plans, or whether you may qualify for a public defender or court-appointed attorney. They may be able to guide you to resources or discuss options to make legal representation more accessible if you are suffering from financial hardship or have an inability to hire a private attorney. 

Ready to Ask These Questions to A Criminal Defense Attorney at Berry Law? 

Choosing the right criminal defense attorney is a crucial step in protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. By asking these key questions, you can gather the information you need to make an informed decision and feel confident in your legal representation. 

If you’re facing criminal charges in Nebraska, the team at Berry Law is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case and how we can assist you.