Questions to Ask a Criminal Lawyer

PUBLISHED ON July 18, 2023

Nobody wants to find themselves charged with a crime. Regardless of your situation, hiring an experienced criminal lawyer is key to effectively representing your case.  

Before you hire a lawyer, you’ll need to speak and learn more about the lawyer during an initial consultation where both parties can learn if they’re a good fit. This means asking certain questions that will help you understand their approach, success rate, usual clientele, and communication style. 

Here are some questions to ask a criminal lawyer during your initial consultation so you can make an informed decision heading into the courtroom.

What Can I Expect to Pay?

Although many people associate lawyers with steep charges and fees, knowing what you can expect to pay during your proceedings is essential. Lawyers can give you a rough estimate of your case’s total cost, depending on whether they charge clients a fixed amount or by the hour for their services. 

How much your case will ultimately cost depends on several factors, such as the lawyer’s experience level, complexity, anticipated time commitment, and whether trial dates are scheduled.

How Successful Are You With This Type of Case?

The outcome of your case may depend on how much experience a lawyer has in their area of legal practice, especially when it comes to handling criminal cases similar to yours. This makes case-relevant experience one of the more important questions to ask a criminal lawyer. 

Who Will Be in Charge of Handling My Case?

Lawyers often work as part of a firm with other legal counsel members, meaning you may interact with associates, paralegals, and law students. If a particular lawyer seems promising, you’ll want to confirm whether they’ll personally work on your case by appearing in court with you and overseeing the decisions throughout the proceedings.

What Are Your Avenues of Communication?

Before you hire a lawyer, you should learn what communication will look like with them. Will they call you with an update when something changes, or will you have to come by the office?

Keeping current on developments relating to your case is crucial when working with a criminal defence lawyer. Understanding how you’ll remain in touch will reduce the likelihood of a communication breakdown between you and your lawyer. Inquire about how they’ll contact you and how you can contact them with any questions, comments, or concerns.

Seek a Quality Defense With Brian Ross

After you determine your questions to ask a criminal lawyer and have a meeting with some potential contenders, it’s time to make a decision. As a qualified criminal defence lawyer in Toronto with over 20 years of industry experience, Brian Ross will work vigorously in preparation for your case.

Contact Brian Ross at (416) 658-5855 for legal advice pertaining to your case.