Before hiring good criminal lawyer from Sydney to look after your case, you need to have peace of mind and know they are capable of handling the matter and working in your best interests.
That can be a hard marker to reach when clients try and separate the overzealous marketing jargon from the substance of their services.
The field of criminal law is diverse and evolving, yet there are universal skills and principles that will underpin their success.
When speaking with these firms during the initial consultations, push them for responses that are honest and informs you about their practice.
“What Happens If I Lose?”The first question to ask might be somewhat pessimistic, but asking what happens if you lose is important. The risks could be financial, it could involve a loss of employment or property, or could result in community service or jail time. Understanding the stakes is imperative because it will help to frame further decisions down the line and it will test the honesty of the practitioner.
“How Do You Calculate Your Billing?”
The financial cost that a client can incur will often be the most influential factor to whether or not the criminal lawyer will be hired. There will be variety in how a billing policy can be issued and it can change depending on the means of the individual, from flat fees and hourly rates to a bill that is commensurate with a winning case or pro bono work – a firm can extend themselves in some scenarios. Once this element is established, the relationship can forge ahead with other logistics.
“What Is Your History With Similar Cases?”
According to O’Sullivan Legal, criminal law comprises of a variety of cases that fall under this jurisdiction. It will feature murder and manslaughter to sexual abuse and domestic assault, fraud, robbery, the breaking of contract and blackmail. Firms will often allocate specialists to certain categories and as a client you need to be aware if they have a history winning in these environments.
“Will You Be Working Alone Or Part Of A Team?”
Depending on the type of case and resources of a firm, there will be matters that are handled by a team comprising of leading counsel and their paralegals. Then there are other instances where a sole solicitor will be running the entire operation. Knowing which two of these services will be issued is important for the client to be aware of, allowing to establish a firm point of contact.
“Can You Update Me On Case Progress?”
The credibility of a case can often be tested behind the scenes as evidence is gathered and documentation is laid out. There will be moments when it is not suitable for a client to be informed about certain events, but any major breakthroughs or court dates should be communicated as soon as possible. It is when there is a breakdown of communication that clients begin to become anxious.
“What Can I Do To Win?”
Winning a criminal law case cannot be achieved by a solicitor in isolation. It will be the teamwork and cooperation of the individual working side-by-side with their counsel to gather evidence, build an argument and being available for crucial appointments and deadlines. If the representative asks for distance and outlines there is nothing in your power to win, they are deliberately misdirecting you.
Summary
The important phase for clients is to enjoy an open and honest dialogue to test whether or not the criminal lawyer has the requisite skills and ability to win a case outright. They will present multiple options, pleas and strategies before forging forward in good faith. It is recommended that citizens cross reference their attorney, speak to trusted third parties and make a judgment call based on the facts.
