When you’re facing a criminal charge, there is nothing as important as hiring the right criminal defense attorney. While there’s plenty of info out there about how to find the best lawyer, there’s very little on the warning signs that the person you’re considering is not the right one for your case. Here are five things you can look out for to ensure you’re not on the wrong track.

1. Guaranteed results

You do want an attorney who’s optimistic about your case but they need to be realistic, too. If they’re guaranteeing that you’ll get a specific positive outcome then you should walk away quickly. While there are things Law Office of Michael L. Fell can do to work towards the best possible outcome, no one can predict the future and it’s wise not to trust an attorney who claims they can guarantee an outcome. In fact, it’s actually against the rules of the State Bar for them to do so.

2. Nonspecific costs and fees

A good attorney will spell out all the costs associated with representing you. California law requires attorneys to provide a written copy of their contract, which includes all costs and fees for their services. This contract must then be signed by you and the attorney. If you don’t get a contract in writing then you should walk away from that attorney.

3. Lack of experience

There’s no question that an attorney must get their start somewhere. However, this is your criminal case – it shouldn’t be the first case they take on. In fact, you’re looking for an attorney with experience specific for your needs. For example, if you’re being charged with drug crimes then you should hire an attorney with experience in drug crimes, while a person charged with theft would want to hire a theft attorney.

4. Poor communication

When it comes down to it, your freedom is literally in the hands of your attorney. If they’re not willing to keep you up to date, if they’re not willing to answer your questions, if they’re not willing to communicate with you, then they are not the right at attorney. When you work with Law Office of Michael L. Fell, you can count on us to have frequent in-person meetings and to provide updates via phone or email as your case develops.

5. Pushing a plea deal on you

Depending on your record, the evidence against you, and the seriousness of the charges you’re facing, a plea deal may be the best option for you. That said, you don’t want an attorney who wants to push this option. You want an attorney who will discuss all your options, give you their expert opinion, and then proceed the way you decide to proceed. If it comes down to a plea deal then they should fight for the best possible deal for you. If you decide to go to trial then they should fight tirelessly to have you found not guilty.

For your free case evaluation, contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell today at (949) 585-9055. We are here to represent you to the best of our ability and offer you decades of experience in the legal field.