Tips for Hiring a Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer

 Posted on January 31, 2020 in Federal Crimes

If you have been indicted for a federal crime such as embezzlement or bankruptcy fraud, you likely know that you need a qualified federal criminal defense lawyer to represent you. You likely also know that you do not just need a lawyer, you need the right lawyer for your case and one that will give you the best chance of success. So, how do you go about finding one? Following the tips below will certainly help.

Find the Right Type of Lawyer

If you are charged with or being investigated for a federal crime, you need a federal criminal defense lawyer. These lawyers are much different than divorce lawyers or estate planning lawyers. They are even much different than criminal defense lawyers that work at a state level. Federal criminal defense lawyers understand the federal system, how federal courts work, and what the sentencing guidelines are in federal court. This is important and will make a difference in your case.

Most lawyers will tell you they cannot take your case if it does not involve an area of law they mainly practice. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Some lawyers will take on whatever case they can get, simply because it means more profit for them. You do not want an attorney if their main priority is making money and not helping you with your case.

Hire Someone Who Is Skilled

This one may seem to make sense, and be fairly obvious. However, it is not. Some attorneys climb the ladder because they are friends with lawyers and judges. This is not the way it should be but unfortunately, it is. This is why it is so important to research the lawyer’s background. Did they go to a reputable law school? Do they have professional accomplishments other than just being a lawyer? Do they belong to any associations that indicate they remain highly involved in law even when they are not with clients?

All of these questions do not guarantee that any federal criminal defense lawyer is the best. After all, many qualified attorneys went to underrated law schools and many mediocre attorneys went to well-regarded law schools. These considerations are still important to think about, though.

Hire Someone that Communicates Well

One of the most important things to consider when hiring a federal criminal defense lawyer is how well they communicate. Part of an attorney’s job is to communicate well with their clients, judges, juries, and everyone else they meet as a result of their line of work. If an attorney cannot adequately communicate with you and make sure you understand what they are saying, there is a good chance they cannot adequately communicate the arguments of your case to a judge or jury, either.

Our Illinois Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer can Help with Your Case

If you have been charged with a federal crime, or you are under investigation for one, call our skilled Chicago federal criminal defense lawyer today. At the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel, our attorney has the necessary experience with the federal criminal justice system and can prepare a solid defense for your case. Call us today at 312-629-0669 to schedule a free consultation so we can start reviewing your case.

Source:

https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/part-I/chapter-31