How do you know if a criminal defense attorney is good?

The lawyers who are well known for providing the highest level of criminal defense have a track record of success in and out of the courtroom.

Choosing a good criminal defense attorney.

It’s common for people to seriously question if a criminal defense lawyer is the best person for handling the defense of their felony or misdemeanor charge in Michigan. Oakland, Wayne, and Macomb Counties have many lawyers with a wide range of skills, effectiveness, and aggressiveness. Choosing a great criminal defense attorney will significantly increase your chances of staying out of jail, avoiding a conviction, or preventing a probation violation. The criminal defense attorneys with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. have learned what qualities make a very good criminal defense attorney.

These tips outline factors that can help determine whether your outcome is good, bad, or mediocre. Remember that a top criminal defense lawyer’s practice is an art form, coordinating technical skills, legal savvy, and knowledge. Nothing can substitute experience and a track record of extraordinary results. Sadly, some veteran lawyers are tired of practicing law or have been doing it the wrong way for so long that they’re set in their ways. Experience alone is meaningless. These guidelines apply to all criminal cases, whether involving a DUI, OWI, drunk driving, driving under the influence of drugs, fraud, assault, weapons charges, domestic violence, violation of probation charges, or others. These rules apply to lawyers practicing in Oakland County, Wayne County, Washtenaw County, Macomb County, or anywhere in Michigan. Similarly, they apply to criminal attorneys who handle state and federal misdemeanor and felony cases.

Most Important Qualities of a Good Criminal Defense Attorney in Michigan

When your future, liberty, family, and employability hang in the balance, finding a good criminal defense attorney can be the key to achieving an extraordinary resolution to felony or misdemeanor charges in Michigan. It is crucial to select a lawyer with specific qualities that make them adept at navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system. Here are the most essential qualities to look for when hiring a lawyer:

Extensive Experience in Michigan Criminal Law

An attorney with a deep understanding of Michigan’s criminal laws, including the nuances of felony and misdemeanor charges, is indispensable. This experience equips them with the knowledge to identify legal nuances and defenses specific to your case. A general practice, court-appointed, or budget lawyer will not have the level of expertise necessary to consistently achieve extraordinary results similar to that routinely obtained by the Defense Team with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C.

Proven Track Record of Success

Look for a good criminal defense attorney with a history of successful case outcomes. A track record of acquittals, reduced charges, and favorable plea bargains is a strong indicator of an attorney’s capability to handle your case effectively. LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. has consistently and reliably won for clients accused of felony and misdemeanor charges in Michigan for decades.

Exceptional Communication Skills

Your attorney should be able to explain complex legal concepts in understandable terms and keep you informed throughout the process. Clear communication is vital for building a strong attorney-client relationship and effective courtroom representation. Suppose you work with one of LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C.’s lawyers. In that case, you can count on routine updates, promptly returned messages, transparency, and accurate, truthful information about your charges, options, and available defenses.

Strong Investigative and Analytical Skills

A good criminal defense attorney must be able to scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence thoroughly and conduct independent investigations when necessary. Analytical skills are crucial for developing a compelling defense strategy. Skill and experience when building a defense are essential; however, neither has any value without a fearless lawyer willing to do what it takes to fight for the best possible outcome.

Aggressive Advocacy and Negotiation Skills

In criminal defense, assertiveness can be a crucial factor. An attorney who is an aggressive advocate in the courtroom and a skilled negotiator can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. The LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. Defense Team is widely known for outstanding and compelling negotiating for plea bargains and sentence reductions. We have tremendous credibility in negotiations with prosecutors and judges because our team is comprised of well-respected criminal trial lawyers, as opposed to lawyers with a reputation for selling out clients for quick, easy resolutions.

High Ethical Standards

Integrity and ethical conduct are non-negotiable. It would be best to have a respected attorney in the legal community who adheres strictly to ethical standards. Prosecutors and judges know they can unquestionably rely on representations made by the lawyers with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. because we have the highest ethical standards and strong reputations for truthfulness and ethical legal practice.

Personalized Attention and Commitment

Your case deserves personalized attention. A good criminal defense attorney should be committed to your defense and responsive to your needs and concerns. They will get to know you, learn your story, and give you a voice in the court proceedings. A well-informed, knowledgeable client can best assist in their defense. We will take the time to talk with you, answer your questions, address your concerns, and work with you to develop a winning strategy.

More Qualities to Seek in a Top Defense Lawyer

There is much to consider when hiring a good criminal defense attorney. Here are some more qualities to consider:

Familiarity with Local Courts and Procedures

An attorney familiar with the local court system, including judges and prosecutors, can navigate the local legal landscape more effectively. A lawyer experienced with the jurisdiction in question is more likely to know the local nuances, rules, and procedures, which can be essential in achieving the best possible outcome. The Defense Team with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. has worked in courts throughout Michigan for decades. We’ve established strong, respectful relationships with judges and prosecutors in Oakland, Wayne, Macomb, Livingston, Washtenaw Counties, and throughout Southeastern Michigan.

Someone Who Considers the effects of a criminal case on your personal, professional, and public life.

Often, convictions can result in the loss of business or professional licenses. Any trade that requires a state license, including hairdressers, nurses, landscapers, and many others, will be at risk if you face criminal charges. Understanding what you can accept as part of a plea bargain, or if you can get a plea bargain at all, is crucial to making the right choice.

Someone Who Considers and Is Familiar With Immigration Consequences (If Applicable).

Anyone who is not a legal citizen must be cautious when faced with criminal charges. A conviction or admission without entry of a judgment might result in deportation, exclusion from re-admission, or denial of citizenship. Unfortunately, most criminal defense lawyers don’t understand this area of law and the potential immigration consequences of a criminal charge or conviction. Understanding these implications is necessary in Southeastern Michigan, as we have a significant immigrant population.

The X-Factor

The only way to know whether a lawyer is right for you is to meet with them and look into that person’s eyes. A lawyer is, by definition, an expert talker, and you shouldn’t be fooled by fast-talking and promises or guarantees of unrealistic results (in Michigan, it is unethical to make a promise or guarantee, and this is a sure sign of a lawyer who cares more about the money than the client). The eyes don’t lie, and when you meet a lawyer in person, you will be in the best position to judge whether that person is a good criminal defense attorney for you.

Free Consultation and Confidential Case Evaluation

If you would like a free consultation with a highly experienced criminal lawyer who has a track record of success, please call LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C., and we will take the time to talk with you, answer your questions, and address each of your concerns.

Our attorneys have successfully defended clients charged with felony and misdemeanor offenses for decades. They can be voraciously aggressive when appropriate and, when needed, eloquent, persuasive negotiators. Whether the client is best served by a jury trial or a plea bargain, the Defense Team with LEWIS & DICKSTEIN, P.L.L.C. has the ability and aptitude to take a case in whatever direction will achieve the best possible results for the client.

Call us today at (248) 263-6800 for a free consultation or complete an online Request for Assistance Form. We will contact you promptly and find a way to help you.