How to Choose Find the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer in Los Angeles
There are 8,236 listings of criminal defense lawyer offices in Los Angeles. If you are faced with a serious criminal case, which one do you choose? Here are smart tips to follow on choosing the best criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles.
1. Find a defense lawyer that specializes in the criminal case you are facing. A violent crime defense lawyer is of no use to a securities fraud case. You also may want to steer clear of lawyers who handle various types of cases, as his experience and skills may not be sufficient enough to win your case.
Hiring a former public defender may also be a good strategy. Their well-entrenched experience and exposure in the criminal justice system may serve your case well.
2. Look for referrals and check for their ratings. The state bar associations can provide referrals, albeit limited in nature. State bars will also have discipline records of members.
You may also check for their Martindale-Hubbell ratings, although not all criminal defense lawyers participate in this rating. There is also the independent AVVO.com, which rates all lawyers. None are allowed to opt out of this rating system.
3. Check for organization memberships, and see if he holds a principal position in these organizations. This is an indication of how his peers and colleagues view him as a lawyer.
4. Ask if they taught in law school or published legal articles. Also check if they’ve worked as legal analysts or commentators. These are good indications of reputation, expertise and integrity.
5. Do not try to find the cheapest criminal defense lawyer. Accept that they are expensive, but do be clear about their fee structure.
6. Be wary of those who are only too eager to take on your case and those who promise a win. A good lawyer will never make promises and will always keep you in check.
