10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Attorney in Birmingham, AL
When you’re arrested for a criminal offense or face an investigation, the first thing a defendant should do is reach out for legal help. You could face serious consequences, and trying to handle conversations with the police alone or figure out what steps to take next is never a good idea.
So, how do you figure out who to work with? Here are 10 questions to ask before hiring a criminal defense attorney in Birmingham, AL.
1. Do You Regularly Handle Cases Like Mine?
When you talk with an attorney you’re considering hiring, one of the first things you want to know is whether they have experience handling the type of case you’re dealing with. For example, if you’re charged with driving under the influence (DUI), you’ll want to know if they have experience with DUI cases.
Simply choosing a criminal defense lawyer isn’t always enough—you want one who knows how to defend you specifically.
2. What Results Have You Achieved in Similar Cases?
You need a lawyer who is upfront about their successes and setbacks in scenarios like yours. Past results never guarantee that you will get the desired outcome in your case, but they can show you if the attorney knows what they’re doing. It’s important to know before you decide what firm to work with.
3. What Are the Most Likely Outcomes for My Charges and the Worst-Case Scenario?
There’s usually no way a lawyer can tell you exactly what will happen and what your punishment will be if you’re convicted. However, they should be able to look at your case and give you potential best and worst-case scenarios. If an attorney can’t give you any idea of what you’re looking at, they may not have the needed experience.
4. Am I Eligible for Diversion?
Diversion programs offer some people charged with crimes a way out of harsh penalties, and can prevent a conviction from following you forever. Depending on the program, eligibility is determined by the type of crime, criminal history, and other criteria. Usually, a defendant completes some sort of treatment or other program, and their charges will be dropped.
Any good lawyer should look into this option for you right away and let you know if it is possible.
5. How Do You Charge Your Clients?
Before hiring someone, you need to know what they will charge you. One lawyer might charge by the hour, and another might require a set amount for your case, depending on what stage it gets to (plea deal, trial, appeal, etc). You also want to know if you have to pay for other expenses, like court and filing fees, expert witness fees, and anything else needed in the case.
6. Who Will Work on My Case Day-to-Day, and Who’s My Main Contact?
Even at smaller law firms, more than just the lead attorney may handle work on your case. Find out who will handle most of the work on your case and who you can contact if you have questions. You want to be able to reach someone, not just get passed around or sent to voicemail.
7. What Timeline Should I Expect?
From start to finish, cases often don’t move as quickly as people might wish. Ask your lawyer to walk you through the possible stages of your situation and provide rough estimates of how long each step could take. They can’t give you an exact timeline, but a good defense attorney should be able to explain how long these cases typically take.
8. Are You Familiar With Local Prosecutors and Judges?
Working with a lawyer familiar with the area is always a good idea. This often means they might have a good relationship with the prosecutor and know how judges rule on certain issues, which can positively affect your case.
9. What Do You Need From Me to Strengthen the Case?
Sometimes clients try to let their lawyer handle everything alone, but your help can matter. It’s a good sign if your lawyer asks for your input on the case or tells you exactly what documents or evidence they need from you.
10. How Many Cases Do You Handle at a Time?
Your potential lawyer may not be able to tell you exactly how many cases they handle at a time, but they should be able to give you a rough estimate. You want a lawyer who isn’t spread too thin with too many cases. This ensures that they have the time and resources needed to fight for you.
Contact Our Birmingham Criminal Defense Lawyers at Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. for a Consultation
If you’ve been charged with a crime in Birmingham, the attorney you choose can make all the difference. At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., our criminal defense lawyers have over 100 years of combined experience protecting clients against serious charges. We’ll answer your questions, explain your options, and fight aggressively for the best possible result in your case.
For more information, contact an experienced Birmingham criminal defense attorney at Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. for a free consultation.
We proudly serve clients in Birmingham and all throughout Alabama.
Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C.
2320 Arlington Ave S, Suite 100, Birmingham, AL 35205
(205) 930-9800