7 Questions to Ask a California Criminal Defense Attorney

Posted on: June 16th, 2023 by Dod Law

California Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal charges are serious offenses in California and may carry multiple stringent punishments. A conviction could lead to lengthy jail terms, overwhelming heavy fines, and other consequences that may heavily impact your family and future. With so much on the line, you will want a skilled California criminal defense attorney with the credentials and ability to defend your case. However, not every attorney may be right for you and your case.

The quality and experience of a criminal defense lawyer could give you the best chance for a favorable outcome. Asking the right questions can help ensure you hire a criminal defense attorney with the talent, skills, and experience to fight complex criminal charges. 

7 Questions to Ask Your California Criminal Defense Attorney

Here are 7 questions to ask a California criminal defense attorney during your initial consultation.

1. How Long Have You Practiced Criminal Law?

A lawyer with lots of experience will understand the complexities of your case and can anticipate the tactics used by the prosecution. Therefore, they can properly guide you through each phase of the legal process and build a strong defense strategy.

2. What Type of Cases Do You Handle?

When looking for the right attorney, you’ll want to ensure you hire an attorney with extensive experience in handling your specific type of case. An attorney who specializes in your particular type of charges has enough concentrated knowledge and skills to make a difference. They have also forged personal relationships with local prosecutors and judges and understand the ins and outs of the court systems where your case will be heard.

3. What Are the Possible Outcomes of My Charges?

While no attorney can guarantee specific results, they should be able to give professional guidance. A skilled criminal defense attorney can evaluate the preliminary information and honestly assess the possible outcomes in your case. Rather than overpromising, an attorney should honestly inform you about the following:

• Potential consequences if found guilty
• Possible jail term and fines
• The sentencing options in your case
• The likelihood of a plea agreement
• The options you have to avoid going to trial

An accomplished criminal defense lawyer can evaluate your case’s strengths and weaknesses before preparing you for the best and worst-case scenarios. 

4. What Is Your Success Rate?

An attorney with an outstanding reputation and a good record of success can do everything possible to protect your best interests. Therefore, ask about their success rate and inquire about their reputation. 

5. Do You Have Any Testimonials From Past Clients?

Testimonials and reviews from past clients can give an overview of what to expect. An outstanding attorney should have plenty of testimonials from clients they have represented. Therefore, ask for testimonials to see what actual clients have to say and how satisfied they are with the lawyer’s services. 

6. Who Else Will Be Working on My Case?

Many lawyers have a strong team that helps them to build a strong case. However, you won’t want to take any chances with so much on the line. Your lawyer should never pass your case to others and forget about it. Therefore, ensure that your lawyer is committed to your case and will actively coordinate their team and work on building a strong defense.

7. What Will Be My Role In the Case?

You and your defense lawyer are a team working together to achieve the best possible outcome for your criminal charges. Therefore, it’s important to know what’s required of you. This may include:

• The type of information and documentation they may need
• Avoid talking to witnesses
• Avoid talking to the police without your attorney’s presence
• Whether undergoing treatment or enrolling in programs may help the outcome of your case

Understanding your potential role will make you a better-prepared defendant. 

Contact a Skilled California Criminal Defense Lawyer at Dod Law, APC

With all the complexities of criminal charges and potential pending consequences that impact your freedom and future, you will want nothing less than a qualified attorney to represent you. Having an excellent attorney starts with asking as many questions as possible. By asking these questions and getting real answers, you’ll better understand whom to entrust with a legal matter that could profoundly change your life.

Hiring a skilled attorney at Dod Law, APC can significantly improve your chances of better results. We have many years of experience practicing criminal law in California and know what it takes to put our clients in the best position possible. Contact us today at our San Diego office (619) 814-5110 | Vista office 760-814-6025 or fill out our online form to discuss your charges with our team with over 18 years of experience today.