How to Find a Lawyer for Your Defense Case in San Diego
Facing criminal charges following an arrest is not a situation anyone wants to experience, but truth be told the consequences won’t simply vanish. Instead, it is important to take charge of your defense in order to meet the charges directly and to ensure you have a fair and equitable experience within the justice system. After being charged, the most common concern many people face is uncertainty over how to find a lawyer.
No matter the severity of the alleged crime, a criminal defense attorney is an invaluable ally in your efforts to navigate the system. With an experienced lawyer on the case, the potential for a more positive outcome increases — this could mean reduced charges or a lighter sentence, or a reliable way to defend yourself before a jury of your peers. With that in mind, here’s how to find a lawyer that will satisfy your specific needs.
How To Find A Lawyer: Where To Begin
The very first thing to do is to begin searching your local area for a defense center that can provide you with assistance. You could do it the old-fashioned way by looking in a phone book, or you could take to your search engine of choice. Asking others for recommendations based on their own experiences can also be very helpful. The important thing to differentiate between civil and criminal defense attorneys.
A civil lawyer will not be able to help you with a criminal case, as it is not their usual area of expertise. Civil lawyer’s deal with things like business disputes and auto accidents. On the other hand, a criminal trial lawyer will have in-depth experience with judges, juries, and the procedures—valuable skills for handling your case. If you face charges for a particular type of crime, such as a drug offense or a DUI, you may also choose to search for lawyers who specialize in these areas.
Choosing A Lawyer In San Diego That’s Right For Your Case
After identifying a law firm that looks like a good fit, you should request a consultation. Most lawyers will provide an initial meeting free of charge to allow you to explain your situation and determine if you should work together. During this time, you should seek to determine whether their knowledge and experience will provide you with an opportunity for better results. To that end, consider a few of the questions you should ask an attorney
- How much time have you spent working cases in the courtroom?
- What are some of the successes you’ve had?
- How much time can you devote to my case?
- How often do you take cases to trial?
- What is the most serious case you have handled?
Questions such as these can help you determine if an attorney is worth an investment of your confidence.
How Much Will An Attorney In San Diego Cost?
After figuring out how to find a lawyer, you may next wonder about the financial cost. There is no “one size fits all” answer to this question. Attorney’s fees vary greatly, depending on everything from the lawyer’s hourly rate to the complexity of the case or the severity of the charges. Some lawyers are more willing to work on payment plans, with an initial upfront payment. Others may insist on a hefty retainer. Since there’s no hard and fast rule, the best choice is to simply explore all your options. The majority of criminal defense attorney’s use a flat rate as opposed to hourly rates. Misdemeanor cases generally range from $2,000-$5,000 and felony cases vary greatly depending on the seriousness and complexity of a case.
Taking The Next Steps
At Griffin Law Office, access to an experienced attorney is always a phone call away. With experience in every courtroom in San Diego County and a dedication to helping clients no matter the charge, we have helped many individuals achieve better outcomes with the justice system. As you consider how to find a lawyer for your case, consider the potential of working with our firm. Contact us to arrange for a consultation at your convenience.