What To Consider Before Choosing Counsel In Bloomington
Facing legal matters? There are certain things you should think about:
- Can you afford private counsel? Depending on your case, there can be significant lawyer fees that apply. A good attorney will give you an estimate of cost. While estimates are never exact, it can let you know whether it’s an option for you. Or, should you ask the court for a public defender because of financial restraints?
- Are you ready to hear straight talk about your situation? You need to be able to discuss your case frankly with your attorney. There shouldn’t be anything worrisome about this idea: your attorney is your ally and advocate. They have the knowledge to tell you what’s going to happen and what you might be facing.
If you can answer “yes” to both these questions, you are ready to begin looking for an attorney.
Factors When Interviewing Attorneys
When you are facing legal issues of any sort, you can feel overwhelmed. You might think that any lawyer is as good as another, and you just need to pick one. However, that’s not the case. You need to think hard and do your research before choosing an attorney.
Because our attorneys, Sam and Tanner Shapiro, have years of experience both in criminal defense and working in a prosecutor’s office, our firm, Shapiro & Shapiro Law Office, L.L.P., is able to offer some pieces of advice when seeking an attorney:
- Do not make decisions based on advertisements: Ads can introduce you to attorneys, but they are not a foolproof indicator of future success.
- Remember that there are no sure things when it comes to court: Each case is different and although consistency can indicate skill, no competent lawyer could or would promise you a jury trial win or a favorable plea bargain.
- Seek out experience: You don’t want to be someone’s guinea pig.
- Look for someone who says they are a trial lawyer: Sometimes, attorneys make it clear that they try to avoid trial. They might say that this is for your benefit, but all this means is that you are probably going to take a plea bargain. Your lawyer needs to be willing to go to trial.
- Avoid lawyers who are not criminal defense lawyers: You should never trust an attorney who doesn’t do criminal cases with your future. They might be excellent in their field, but you want someone who knows the system.
Remember, this is your case, and you are in control. It’s your ultimate decision whether to take a plea bargain or go to trial. Sometimes, trial is the only answer, especially if your case is strong and the prosecutor is being unreasonable. Other times, a plea negotiation can eliminate the risk of jail time or other harsh consequences when your case isn’t as strong. The right attorney will help you navigate these choices by providing an objective, informed and realistic analysis of your case and its risks.
Things You Should Ask An Attorney Before Hiring Them
It is essential to find a lawyer who is experienced, knowledgeable and has a proven track record of success. To help you with this, here are some questions to ask during your consultation to gauge a lawyer’s proficiency and commitment:
- How long have you been a lawyer? _________
- Have you ever tried a jury trial? _______
- Have you ever won a jury trial? ________
- Are you named to Indiana Super Lawyers list? _____________
- Are you a member of the National College for DUI Defense? __________
- When did you last win a jury trial? ________________________
- What offenses were charged in the criminal defense jury trials that you won? _________
- Have you handled a case with the same charges I am facing? ________
- Have you handled any OWI/DUI death jury trials? ___________________
- Are you a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers? ___________
- Can I research cases that you have participated in to see jury trial results or appeal results? _________________________
- Can you estimate how many OWI/DUI cases you have taken to jury trial? _________________________
- Have you given any presentations at seminars by speaking or presenting materials to other lawyers, police or prosecutors? _________________________
- Have you argued any criminal defense cases before the Indiana Court of Appeals or Supreme Court? ___________________
- Is your practice limited to criminal defense? _____________
Selecting an attorney is one of the most important decisions you can make, and you have every right to ask questions that help you determine if they are the right fit for your case.
Is Shapiro & Shapiro Law Office Right For Me?
When choosing a criminal defense attorney, the most important thing is that you’re comfortable with and have faith in, your attorney. Our lawyers are direct; they speak their minds and tell you exactly what their assessment is of your case without much sugar coating.
Our attorneys believe it is important that you understand the reality of your case and its risks, and their duty is to provide you with an objective analysis of your case so that your decision-making is informed, logical and realistic. You are paying for their knowledge, experience and reputation. Sam has handled post-conviction relief cases and argued criminal cases before the Indiana Appeals Court and the Indiana Supreme Court on appeal.
To assist with trials, if necessary, our lawyers have business relationships with expert witnesses like forensic toxicologists, forensic pathologists, child psychologists, jury selection experts, forensic dentists, psychiatrists, psychologists and sentencing experts. If these witnesses are necessary in your case, you must pay for their services. Our attorneys will not hire experts without your input and permission.
Reach Out Today And Get Started With Your Criminal Defense
Whether you are just starting your search for an attorney or you have decided that Shapiro & Shapiro Law Office, L.L.P., is right for you, please reach out today. Our attorneys would be pleased to speak with you and let you know what they think. Should you choose to hire them, they expect patience, faith, courtesy and honesty from clients. In return, they will offer the same to you. Contact our firm at 812-484-3844 or via our online contact form today.