Choosing The Right Criminal Defense Attorney
♫ Friday, March 4th, 2011Choosing the right criminal defense attorney could be the most important decision you ever make. You need to take into account several areas of concern including:
* The attorney’s past results are very important.
* Overall cost, including up front fees.
* Creative representation: Is the attorney able to think outside the box?
* Alternative negotiations: Can you settle out of court?
* Personalized attention: Who is really representing you?
* What experience does he or she have?
Look for an attorney that starts by treating every person differently, as each case has special needs and unique situations. Each person also has their own financial ability. Why pay a lawyer thousands of dollars to go to trial, when your case may be settled to your satisfaction for far less? If you are not happy with the settlement, only then should you proceed to trial.
The attorney should research, investigate and review every case personally. Your attorney should evaluate your case and defend it in every possible way. However, keep in mind that you want them to first attempt to settle your case with the most creative alternatives possible to reach a settlement you approve and a settlement you can live with.
A resolution or settlement is the result of what is commonly known as “plea bargaining.” People enter into a plea bargain for many reasons. It is not always because they are guilty. Often times a person wants the case to simply “go away” as quickly as possible and as painlessly as possible. Other times, a person is accused of a lot of charges and enters into a settlement so that more serious charges are dropped in exchange for accepting responsibility for significantly lesser charges.
Most people want their case settled and most cases can be settled . Don’t pay an attorney huge fees to prepare for trial when you can settle your case in a manner acceptable to you – for a price you can afford.
If your case cannot be settled or you are not satisfied with the proposed settlement, you can decide whether to proceed to trial. In most cases a flat fee is charged. If your case requires legal services beyond the initial settlement fee, then you should be quoted additional fees for those services up-front.
The experienced criminal defense lawyers at the Oakland/greater East Bay area Law Offices of Robert J. Beles are dedicated to protecting the rights and freedom of the accused. He is certified as a criminal law specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. Over the course of more than 40 years, Robert has built a solid reputation as a highly effective criminal defense attorney in the East Bay/Oakland, California area.
Annie Beles is also certified as a criminal law specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization and has over 10 years of experience. Both father and daughter take great pride in their reputation and success. Their firm is well respected throughout the judicial system and legal community. Their legal team is rounded out by a dedicated group of lawyers with a variety of talents that benefit clients. They all have impressive qualifications and a drive to defend people who are accused of crimes. Contact them through BelesLaw.com or by phone to discuss your legal concerns.
