There are several qualities you will want to look for.
Level of Experience
You want an attorney that not only has experience with the law but specifically with criminal law. With so much at stake, you want to ensure that the lawyer you hire understands the law inside and out. No one understands both sides of the law more than an attorney who has worked for the prosecution and the defense.
Together Jorge Vela and his attorney partner Miguel Aguilera bring first-hand knowledge and experience. With former law enforcement experience, the lawyers at the Law Office of Jorge Vela know how the prosecution approaches, investigates, and charges criminal cases. This gives them the upper hand as criminal defense lawyers. They have insider knowledge that can help ensure the best possible outcome in their case.
While there’s no substitute for real-life experience, experience without success may not help much when facing the consequences of a crime. Ensuring the legal team you hire has a proven track record of helping clients in similar situations is equally important as experience.
Time
Does the attorney have time for your case? Criminal charges need the full attention of an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. You need a criminal defense firm that can devote its time and attention to your case, not one that will fit it in between when they can or make it a low priority.
In fact, many charged with a crime consider using a public defender in order to avoid the cost of legal representation. Unfortunately, most of them are loaded with cases and have very little time and attention to give each case the personalized attention it deserves.
As such, they may not have time to address your case or answer your questions. Due to their sheer workload, they are also less likely unable to dedicate their attention to fighting on your behalf. On the other hand, our skilled criminal defense attorneys have the time and attention your case needs and deserves.
Communication and Accessibility
You also want a criminal defense attorney in Austin, TX that communicates with you and is easily accessible. Criminal accusations often come with many questions and concerns. When they arise, you want to be able to reach out to your lawyer for answers sooner rather than later.
While your attorney may not be available every time you call, it’s essential that you have the reassurance that they are working on your case and will return your calls.
Local Experience
Hiring a criminal trial lawyer in Austin, TX who has worked in the local area and established relationships with the local courts, judges, prosecutors, district attorneys, and other legal teams is in your best interest. You want an attorney who is knowledgeable about the process and options you might have.
Someone who is well-connected will have first-hand experience that will help them handle your criminal charges in the best way possible. Coming up with the best winning strategy for your case will be easier when they are armed with this knowledge.
Fees
It’s only natural to gravitate toward the criminal defense attorney that charges the least amount in fees. However, this has backfired for far too many in the justice system. Remember, even when it comes to finding a criminal defense attorney, you get what you pay for.
If you hire the cheapest lawyer you can find, you may get the cheapest service around. You don’t want to jeopardize your future, now is the time to make a good decision to invest in an attorney who can get the job done for you.
Be thorough in your research for a criminal lawyer in Austin, TX, and choose wisely. The pending outcome and what your life will look like once the case is closed depends highly on it. Selecting the lawyer that is right for you involves investing your time and energy.
It’s one of the most critical decisions you’ll make as it impacts how your case will go and what the outcome will be. Defending yourself against criminal charges isn’t something you should leave to chance. The outcome of these looming charges can affect your entire future, making it imperative that you hire an experienced criminal defense law firm who knows exactly how to help you.