Hiring the right criminal lawyer is probably the most important step a person can take when they face criminal charges. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney is an invaluable asset in all cases of criminal offenses, from drunk driving to white-collar crimes.

However, not all criminal law attorneys offer the same level of experience, dedication, and knowledge of federal laws. Jason English, criminal defense lawyer and founder of Jason S. English Law, PLLC, highlights three vital things to keep in mind while looking for a criminal lawyer.

What to Look for in a Criminal Lawyer

Your choice of a criminal attorney can have a tremendous impact on the outcome of your case. Your freedom, finances, career, and reputation may be at stake, so you'll want the best criminal defense attorney you can get.

1. Experience

When faced with criminal charges, you need a criminal lawyer who knows how the Texas criminal courts operate. A competent attorney will be able to weigh the circumstances and evidence in your specific case and help you determine the best legal strategy in your situation.

While every case is different, an experienced attorney should be able to outline possible outcomes and tell you what you may expect from the outset.

A rich background of legal experience will also help ensure that your lawyer reacts promptly in the courtroom. In a criminal trial, the time window for a crucial objection may only last a few moments. Your criminal defense attorney should know all the court rules to be able to seize any opportunity to promote your cause.

As a former criminal prosecutor with 15 years of experience, Jason S. English understands the strategies prosecutors employ in domestic violence cases to coerce the accused into pleading guilty. Before you plead guilty to any crime, understand your rights and explore your options for fighting the criminal charges.

2. Recommendations

Viewing genuine feedback from past clients is one of the best ways to evaluate your attorney's reputation and skills.

Pay attention to what people are saying about working with the criminal lawyer you are considering hiring. Are former clients happy with their outcome? Were they satisfied with the legal team's efforts on their behalf? Would they recommend this law firm to other people in similar situations?

3. Best Value

Legal help costs money, and if you are under financial constraints, you may be tempted to go with the lowest-priced offer from any local law firm.

However, there is another angle you should consider. A criminal conviction may carry severe consequences, including time in jail, heavy fines, and loss of reputation. When you think of all you stand to lose, it becomes clear you can't afford not to have a knowledgeable defense attorney fighting for you. The cheapest attorney you can get probably won't be the best or most experienced one.

Look for a balance of quality and value when hiring a criminal defense attorney.

Other Considerations

In addition to the factors above, here are a few considerations to keep in mind as you hire a Texas criminal attorney.

Availability. A proficient criminal defense attorney understands that criminal cases are highly time sensitive. Look for someone who is ready to meet you and begin working on your case right away.

Focus. Not every criminal attorney practices criminal law exclusively, but criminal defense should form a significant part of your chosen law firm's practice. Without constant application, a lawyer may easily miss out on nuances specific to Texas criminal law.

Local knowledge. Local connections and an understanding of how each court in your area works can prove invaluable while building a legal defense line.

Your first impression. During your initial consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, ask yourself: Does this attorney seem like someone I would feel comfortable working with? Does s/he appear alert, responsive, and ready to jump into the fray to defend me?

A clear and reasonable payment structure. When you work with a defense attorney, you want to know exactly how they bill and how much you may expect to pay. Make sure you understand what services the lawyer's quote includes.

About Jason S. English, Criminal Defense Lawyer

Jason S. English, a criminal defense lawyer in Austin, TX, is a former prosecutor who has handled thousands of misdemeanor cases. Mr. English represents people who are facing criminal and drunk driving charges.

Working with Jason S. English Law, PLLC has helped countless people in the area of Austin, TX, get a second chance when facing the Texas criminal justice system. Numerous client reviews praise Mr. English for his dedication, care, and ability to follow through even in seemingly hopeless cases.

Jason S. English Law, PLLC: Criminal Defense Attorney Near Me

Are you looking for a “criminal defense attorney near me”? In a complicated legal situation that may influence your entire future, you need representation by an experienced, competent, and dedicated criminal defense lawyer. Drawing upon his 15 years of experience as a criminal prosecutor in Texas, Jason S. English uses his courtroom experience and intimate knowledge of state and federal laws to choose the right legal strategy for each client.

To schedule a no-fee consultation with Jason S. English, a criminal lawyer in Austin, TX, call 512-454-7548 now.

Copyright© 2021. Jason S. English Law, PLLC. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No statement in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient's state, country or other relevant licensing jurisdiction.

Jason S. English Law, PLLC
505 West 12th Street, Suite 201
Austin, TX 78701
512-454-7548
https://gotbustedinaustin.com/