If you are facing criminal charges in Yukon, your first step should be hiring a criminal defense lawyer. Conviction could ruin your life, job, and reputation, and when everything is at stake, there is no point in taking chances. Even minor offenses in Oklahoma could mean jail time and huge fines. An attorney can help minimize the consequences and determine the best way to defend you. It is critical that you get legal advice from someone who understands criminal law and has specific experience. If you are interviewing criminal defense attorneys, here are some questions to ask.
Can you tell me about your experience with similar cases?
The approach & strategy for a white-collar crime would be drastically different than of a DUI case. That’s the precise reason why you need to check if the lawyer has handled similar cases. Find out how they helped clients facing such charges and what were the outcomes of these cases.
How will we communicate?
Communication is the crux of the relationship that you share with your attorney. Make sure you have access to the attorney, for which you should have their contact details. Criminal lawyers often have a client portal, which allows clients to check records. Because lawyers are busy, they may often assign junior attorneys and legal staff to handle queries. No matter the arrangement, you should be able to reach out when necessary.
Are you personally available?
That’s another valid question to ask. There is nothing more frustrating than meeting a top criminal lawyer but to have their junior work on the case. Always ensure the lawyer is directly working on the case. Many attorneys may refer the case to an associate, and if that happens, you should meet that lawyer too.
What are your charges?
Legal costs are critical for choosing a criminal lawyer. If the case continues for a long time, you will have to pay the ongoing hourly rates and retainer fees. Many lawyers may work on a flat fee for selected cases, but a lot depends on the charges and complications involved. Ideally, you should get a ballpark in advance, which will help plan your finances. Also, ask the attorney about the other expenses related to the case.
What are the potential outcomes of such cases?
Your lawyer should explain best and worst-case scenarios, which will help set the right expectations. The possibilities differ with every type of case, but understanding the criminal charges will help you navigate the situation. They will also explain the legal strategies that they will consider. For instance, a lawyer may recommend a plea deal if a client is guilty.
What would you recommend in the current situation?
Your lawyer may have a few dos and don’ts for you to follow. If you are arrested, their first task is to get you out, and in some cases, it may mean agreeing to certain terms & conditions. If you are on probation, violating the order has serious consequences. Listen to your attorney at all times, and if you think the police has or had violated your rights, let them know.
Other things to know
Take your time to find the right criminal defense lawyer in Yukon, but don’t delay the decision. Your lawyer needs time to investigate the charges and look at the available evidence, and as such, the more time they have after your arrest, the better. Also, if you are comparing attorneys, it is absolutely imperative that you ask for references. You can also find reviews, ratings, and testimonials online to help compare choices. Choose someone who doesn’t delay offering an appointment and answers all your questions.
