When you are accused of a crime, it is understandable that you would feel overwhelmed and frightened. You may wonder what will happen to you and if you will go to jail. The first thing you need to do is calm down and take a deep breath. It is important to remember that being accused of a crime does not mean that you are guilty. You have the right to an attorney and must choose the right one.

The first step in choosing the right criminal lawyer is to do your research. Talk to friends or family members in similar situations and ask for recommendations. Once you have a few names, meet with each lawyer to get a feel for their personality and style. You must feel comfortable with your lawyer, who will represent you in court.

Introduction: why you need a criminal lawyer

Understanding the criminal justice system is critical to your case. A good criminal lawyer will know precisely how to navigate you through the process. You may be asked to participate in a lineup or testify in court. Your lawyer will be there with you and help you prepare for these situations. Knowing what you’re getting into can help you to feel more confident and less anxious. Many people find that being arrested is the most traumatic experience they’ve ever had. It s important to remember that you're not alone. You have a criminal lawyer to help you and guide you through the process.

The process of choosing a criminal lawyer

An excellent place to start is with a lawyer referral service. You can find these services in major cities and in many county bar associations. They should have lists of lawyers that specialize in criminal law. You can call the referral service and tell them your situation. They should be able to give you a list of lawyers with experience in this area. You can also ask friends and colleagues for recommendations or look on the Internet for information about lawyers in your area. It’s a good idea to interview several lawyers before making a final decision. You can ask the lawyer about his or her experience, fees and other questions you have. You should feel comfortable with the lawyer before hiring him or her.

Questions to ask a potential criminal lawyer:

What is your experience with cases like mine? How will you handle my case? How much do you charge for your services, and how often will I need to pay? What happens if we don't agree on something? If I want to change lawyers, can I do that without paying another fee? Where do you attend school? Do you have a law degree? What is your education in criminal law? Are you a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers? If so, what is their rating of your work and personality? How long have you been practicing criminal law?