Life is complicated and frustrating enough when you’re charged with a crime without having to worry about all the costs. When you add in the unknown of what legal fees you’ll be responsible for covering, it can be extremely stressful.
It doesn’t have to be, however. If you understand the difference between different types of lawyers and their fees, it’ll help lift a good amount of weight off your shoulders. No need to worry if you don’t have the time to figure it all out on your own! We’ve done the work for you.
First, you need to understand that getting the most expensive lawyer you can find won’t necessarily mean they’re the best lawyer. Likewise, the least expensive lawyer isn’t necessarily the worst. Rather than just focusing on price to choose one, you need to look at their qualities.
It’s important to hire a lawyer who already has experience and who has the time and commitment to handle your case themselves. Look at their work history. They should be aggressive, dedicated to your case, and knowledgeable in their line of work.
It is completely reasonable to want to know how much it will cost to have a lawyer represent you before officially choosing them to take your case. Often, lawyers will offer the option of having you come in for a free consultation to discuss both your case and the cost you would be responsible for should you hire them to take your case.
At the end of the consultation, you’ll not only know if you can afford the lawyer, but you’ll have a better idea of their character and qualities. If you don’t feel comfortable with the lawyer, either because of what they’ll cost you or because of how they act, you won’t be obliged in any way to choose them to represent you.
A consultation is for you to find out if you want to hire them, it’s not an agreement to hire them. In fact, it can be quite helpful to talk to several lawyers. This is especially true if this is your first time hiring one! If you don’t know what to expect from one, you’ll be better prepared to make a decision after you’ve found several options.
If at the end of the consultation you realize you cannot afford to hire the lawyer, it’s always an option to keep looking until you can find a different one who charges less. If you still can’t find one you can afford, it’s possible the court could assign you a lawyer to represent you for free.
Often, the free lawyers are excellent ones who have had a great deal of experience. Unfortunately, they are also usually quite busy and may not have the time you would desire to devote to your case.
If you can afford it, it’s best to hire your own lawyer who will be committed to you and have the time necessary to dedicate to your case. You want a lawyer who is not only skilled but who will also work hard to put your needs first. Take your time and choose the one you feel you can trust!
