Chicago is the third most densely populated city in the United States. A lot of people choose to call the Windy City home because of its robust economy. This specific town in Illinois state is also idyllic because of its proximity to Lake Michigan. With almost 3 million people sharing this cramped town, it is inevitable to find yourself in a dispute. If you find yourself wrongfully accused of a crime, you need the best Chicago criminal defense attorney to represent your case. Apart from clearing your good name, your chosen lawyer can help you find justice.
However, with so many law firms in town, it can be overwhelming and confusing to find the best representation. Remember, finding a professional lawyer who is well-versed with the intricacies of laws, codes, and regulations can make a whole world of difference in your case’s outcome. A proficient attorney will be able to explain the nuances of your problem, along with the possible penalties you may have to face. Thus, finding an ally to protect your interest cannot be taken lightly. Interview your prospective lawyer beforehand, and don’t forget to ask these three vital questions.
- What is your background and experience?
Inquire about the Chicago criminal defense attorney’s familiarity with cases like yours. Find out when your prospective lawyer began practicing defending people charged under the criminal law. The years speak volumes about the depth of experience. You must find out the answer to these items:
- Year of law degree completion
- Years of practice in criminal law
- Types of cases handled
- Court appearances
- If work is focused on criminal law only
Check if your prospective lawyer has an official website. Keep in mind; a reputable lawyer will have a professional site as this establishes credibility. Furthermore, go the extra mile and read online reviews. These testimonials coming from past clients reveal a lot about a particular attorney and law firm.
- Does your practice center solely on criminal law cases?
You will find many law firms in Chicago focusing on various areas of the legal profession. There’s property law, family law, commercial law, and the like. Notably, criminal defense lawyers specialize in advising on criminal law matters. Hence, you want a firm that focuses on this as it assures mastery and depth of experience. An attorney that specializes and practices exclusively on representing people accused of various offenses amplifies your chances of getting the result you desire. It may be a full acquittal if you are innocent, or you can get a lighter sentence if you committed an offense.
- Will you be the person in charge or representing me in court?
Usually, working with a big law firm means you will be meeting with several people. The first person you typically meet during the initial consultation may not be the one who appears in court. Sadly, this may be disconcerting for you because you are not familiar with the person next to you during stressful court proceedings. For this reason, it is vital to ask your prospective lawyer if he or she will be the one handling your case from the beginning to the very end.
You want a professional you trust and feel comfortable with because your life can be affected by how this person advocates for you in court.
