When facing criminal charges, you know that having an excellent attorney represent you is crucial and can seriously impact your life and future. The right attorney can offer the best possible defence, represent you in the best light possible and hopefully win your case.

But how exactly does one choose a lawyer? First of all, this decision shouldn’t be rushed or made impulsively. There are a few essential things to consider – here’s what you need to consider to help you make the right choice.

Specialisation Area

While you don’t need to hire a lawyer who exclusively practices criminal law, you’ll want to ensure they specialise in the area. Areas of law can differ vastly, and you’ll need to work with someone familiar with the site.

For example, when you’re dealing with a criminal case, an Edmonton criminal defense law firm should be your first choice. A labour lawyer would be the best route if you were to be in a work-related legal case. Take a careful look at the websites of the law firms you’re looking at, and keep an eye open for the words “criminal law” or “criminal defence”.

Qualifications and Experience

Naturally, you need your attorney to be highly qualified in their area. If you hire a lawyer from a well-known law firm, you can probably rest assured that they are qualified and registered.

However, work experience is the most crucial factor in this case. You’ll want to make sure that your attorney is well-practised not only in criminal law but in circumstances that are similar to your own. You can learn about a lawyer’s experience by looking on their website or asking them directly.

Trust and Communication

How a lawyer communicates with their client is enormous and will play a significant role in how the case plays out. You need to trust the person you’re working with and believe that they’ll be able to help you.

Your attorney must make you feel heard, understood, and most of all, respected. Try to get to know them better through a brief interview or meeting before hiring them to ensure you feel comfortable working together.

Location and Fees

Finally, you need to ensure you find a lawyer who is based nearby. They will need to be available for court dates, and it’s always best when someone is connected and well-known in the local courts.

You’ll also want to look out for a transparent fee structure and make sure you can afford the rates of the attorney you want to hire. Remember that the rates of a criminal defense lawyer will differ from those of a personal injury attorney, for example, or anyone practising in a different area of law. Certain areas will be more expensive, and criminal defence will likely cost you.