Your case is won or lost by the best criminal defense attorney. If you’re charged in Missouri, you need someone who is familiar with the law, articulate in his description, and will fiercely advocate for you. Read an article which will guide you to select the best lawyer for your case.
What Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Do?
A crime defense lawyer represents individuals charged with crimes. They:
- Talk to you about your case
- Take facts
- Ask questions of witnesses and question them
- Read police reports
- File motions in court
- Speaks for you before the judge or jury
They help to lower your charges or have your case dismissed. They also tell you what is most likely to happen next.
Why Experience Matters
You require a lawyer who is familiar with handling cases like yours. A DUI case is very different from an assault case. Ask them how many cases they have tried. Ask them how often they go to trial. A good lawyer will not guarantee you win but will inform you of what to expect. Asking them about their winning and losing record is what will lead you to understand how they do business. There are negotiators. There are trial lawyers. You want one who fits best in your case.
What to Look for
The following are some of the most critical things to look for:
- Local Know-how: They need to be familiar with the Missouri courts.
- Good Reputation: Look for reviews on the web and request referrals.
- Plain English: They have to talk plainly in English.
- Reasonable Charges: Ask them how much they charge. Flat fee or by the hour?
- Availability: Do they have time for your case immediately?
- Courtroom Skills: Get attorneys who are effective at delivering speeches and who do not perspire like wild in critical situations.
Ask if they’ve had experience with the same prosecutor or judge. Familiarity with the court staff can help your case go more smoothly.
Missouri Laws to Know
Each state has statutes. In Missouri, some crimes entail a great amount of prison time. Being indicted as a felon can land years in prison. Even being charged can ruin your life at home or work. That’s why it’s well worth the money to have a clever lawyer.
Some of the types of criminal charges are:
- Misdemeanors: Not so bad, but still no light issue.
- Felonies: More major crimes like robbery or assault.
- Drug Charges: Missouri drug laws are very tough.
- DUI/DWI: Can lead to loss of license or jail.
- Weapons Charges: Typically have some other crime added on to it.
- Domestic Violence: You can be charged and it will affect where you live or whether you can see your children.
Missouri has repeat offender statutes as well. The more you have been charged, the worse off you can be.
How to Choose the Best Lawyer for You
Ask Questions
Don’t be scared. You ask questions like:
- Have you ever handled a case like mine before?
- What’s your impression of my case?
- What are my options?
- How much am I going to pay?
- How often will we talk?
The Kansas City traffic lawyer you wish to hire should answer candidly. If they are evasive or cryptic, don’t employ them.
Discuss in Person
It is fine to see them in person or via video. Hear how they speak. Do they listen? Do they clarify? Trust your gut. Pay attention to how they treat you. You need someone who honors your time and situation. A run-through or rude lawyer may not give your case the attention.
Check Credentials
Make sure they are licensed in Missouri. Look online on the Missouri Bar website. Search for a disciplinary record. Don’t hire lawyers with lots of complaints. Also check to see if they belong to criminal defense associations. Membership shows they are up to date on the law.
Compare Lawyers
Interview a few lawyers. Don’t hire the first lawyer you call. Compare fees, experience, and treatment. Take notes. Record your thoughts after each interview. This constitutes an informed decision.
Indications of a Quality Criminal Defense Attorney
- Listens to your issues
- Is up to date with the law
- Acts quickly
- Respects you
- Has a defined strategy
- Speaks the truth
- Does not make unfounded promises
- Keeps you informed regularly
A good lawyer will not scare you or promise you anything that will never come to be. They will be honest with you. They should inform you of your rights and what you should do next.
Cost of a Missouri Criminal Lawyer
Fees are very different. Some lawyers will charge you a flat rate. Others will charge you per hour. Ask for a contract so you won’t be shocked.
The following are approximate cost estimates:
- $1,000 – $3,500 Misdemeanor
- $3,000 – $10,000 and higher Felony
- Cases that go to trial: Can run $15,000 or more
Some lawyers will offer payment plans. Always ask. A decent payment plan will soothe your nerves. Watch out for those low-ball lawyers. Bargain doesn’t necessarily mean best. You deserve good help, not a cheap price.
Public Defender vs. Private Lawyer
If you can’t afford to pay for an attorney, you can ask for a public defender. They are paid but extremely busy. You won’t see many of them. A private attorney will tend to spend more time on your case. Public defenders learn the law as well. Some of them are highly seasoned in court. If you are given one, keep in contact. Be honest with them and question them.
Best Places in Missouri for Criminal Attorneys
Following are some of the locations that have plenty of quality criminal defense lawyers:
- St. Louis: Big city, plenty of lawyers
- Kansas City: Lots of legal options
- Springfield: Less populous, but quality options
- Columbia: There are law schools there
- Jefferson City: State capital, state-level lawyers
Quality lawyers can also be found in small towns. Find towns in your vicinity if your town doesn’t have many lawyers.
Special Qualities That Make the Best Lawyers Stand Out
- Answers promptly
- No waiting to be contacted
- No beating around the bush regarding outcomes
- Doesn’t judge you
- Has good courtroom presence
- Keeps you informed
- Translates legal jargon into plain English
The best lawyers treat you as a human being, not a file.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Not retaining an attorney after a consultation
- Not asking about fees
- Choosing attorneys solely on fees
- Not reading reviews
- Relying solely on ads
- Not reviewing over the fee agreement
Be careful of attorneys who blow a big trumpet and can’t back it up with facts. Demand copies of past successes. Demand truth, not bravado.
FAQs
1. Can I switch attorneys mid-case?
Yes. You can switch if you don’t like your attorney. Just make sure your new attorney can get familiar.
2. What if I’m innocent? Do I need to hire a lawyer?
Yes. Innocent people can be prosecuted too. A lawyer protects your rights.
3. Will my case be tried?
Not necessarily. Most of them resolve before trial. Your attorney will advise you of what is in your best interest.
4. How quickly should I obtain a lawyer if I am arrested?
Immediately. The sooner, the better. Early intervention can result in more desirable results.
5. Can my attorney get charges dismissed?
Perhaps. If the evidence does not exist or the police made a mistake, an attorney can get the charges dismissed.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to protect yourself against criminal accusations. The right Missouri criminal defense attorney will protect your rights, assist with your case, and provide you with the best chance in court. Don’t be hasty. Ask thoughtful questions. Make sure you receive someone who cares about you first. An experienced attorney makes you feel at ease even at the worst time.