-Choose an attorney with experience: If you do something often enough, the right way, learning from your mistakes, you get to be good at it. Being accused of a crime is painful, stressful, and confusing. You want an attorney who has the experience to help you explore all issues thoroughly. Look for an attorney who's practice is dedicated to criminal defense and has handled cases similar to yours. Criminal law is very different from other areas of law and knowledgeable attorneys who emphasize different areas will refer you to a criminal lawyer.
-Choose an attorney who you can work with: An effective attorney must be able to thoroughly communicate with every client. Being a good listener is a skill which develops over time. Your attorney must be able to hear your viewpoints, and listen to all concerns and your ultimate goal. Some clients want to avoid fines, others want to keep their driver's license, others want to avoid jail, and others who are not citizens just want to remain in the U.S. Be cautious of those who promise you the world when it comes to a particular outcome in your case or say that they have some influence over a prosecutor or judge. Choose an attorney who has regular contact with you, who does not have an unreasonable caseload, and allows you to make informed decisions regarding your needs and goals.
-Choose an attorney who will advise you of the good, the bad, and the ugly: Attorneys must be able to look at a case from every perspective. It may be necessary for an attorney to give bad news at certain stages while on the long road of representation in a particular case. An attorney who is constantly "glass half full" or who only tells you what you want to hear may not serve you properly. It is easy for some to sit back and tell a client that you have absolutely nothing to worry about even when that may not necessarily be the case. A courageous, honest opinion at every stage is most valuable.
-Choose an attorney who has balance: A lawyer who is an egomaniacal terror may sound like the way to go. But the importance of having an experienced, professional, mature attorney is often underestimated. Knowing when to fight and when to negotiate is an acquired skill which may often lead to a better result in your case. Choose an attorney that you are comfortable with and is able to strike this delicate balance.
-Choose an attorney who has sound judgment: Probably the most important trait an attorney can have is good judgment. Very important decisions often must be made by you and your attorney. You must have the ability to ask your attorney for his or her opinion with confidence and trust.
-Ask questions: Do not hesitate to ask an attorney questions about any concerns that you have before your decision to hire. By nature, criminal defense attorneys are thick skinned and will not be offended or have their feelings hurt if their qualifications are questioned. A good attorney will appreciate the fact that you are thoughtful about hiring an attorney who can best serve your needs.
For a free initial consultation with the Kerns Law Office, call (785) 371-4159 or send us an e-mail.
