What to look for when searching for a criminal attorney in Los Angeles

Criminal Defense Lawyer Los Angeles

There are many issues that you don’t really need an attorney for, and many types of cases that you may be able to handle yourself, with only a short consultation with a lawyer. And then there some situations that you can't handle on your own. These would be civil cases that are held in civil court, or traffic tickets, and they usually involve outcomes by settling a relationship issue or by imposing monetary settlements. The other type of court case, besides Civil cases, are Criminal cases. A criminal charge is when someone has committed a misdemeanor or a felony 'crime.' Punishment and/or fines is the outcome of criminal court.

If you have been stopped for a DUI (driving under the influence) offense, or accused of a violent crime, a burglary, armed robbery, home invasion, with or without drugs being involved, a crime of sexual content, or even a white collar crime like fraud and embezzlement, you need to find an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Some people think that they can present their case better because they were there, but the fact of the matter is that when you step into the U.S. Judicial System you are entering a system that must be conducted according to that protocol. If you are looking at long term incarceration for your crime, you want the best representation you can find. In the city of Los Angeles, you can find attorneys involved in criminal law, by going on the Internet or to the local Yellow Pages. Most attorneys are online in 2010, so if you have access to a computer, this might be the easiest way to find one.

When looking for a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles keep these things in mind:

• Search for an attorney in Los Angeles that tries the crime that you have been charged with. Lawyers specialize in different areas and you want to be sure that they have your best interest at heart.
• Look for one that has a good reputation; who has a good success rate.
• Find an attorney that you can relate to and understand. Ask for a ½ hour free consultation so that you can explain what you are accused with and they can determine if they can represent you in the best way. You are putting your life in their hands and you want to be sure that the two of you can communicate.
• Finally, you want to find a lawyer that explains the finances from the beginning. Each attorney has their own policies, but most require a down payment and then subsequent payments afterwards. Make sure that you understand their payment policy before you go any further. This is important to arrange from the beginning, so there is no confusion later on.

When you find a reputable criminal defense lawyer, follow his/her directions carefully and you will get the best results.