How to Select a Florida Criminal Lawyer Who is Right for You
he best phone book ad doesn't guarantee the best Florida criminal lawyer. For example, a lawyer may have a big, flashy ad that says "DUI Only!" yet that lawyer may not be a specialist. In fact, there is no specialty in DUI recognized by the Florida Bar Association or the Florida Supreme Court! From Pensacola to Miami, the only two criminal law specialties in Florida are criminal trial law and criminal appellate law. Most lawyers in the criminal defense field provide free initial consultations. The free initial consultation has two purposes:
1) explain what a lawyer can do for you, and;
2) what the fee would be if you and the lawyer agree to representation. Ask questions before you go to the lawyer's office. Desperate lawyers will offer low money down payment plans, cheap fees and cheap service. The best attorneys and lawyers will expect their fee up front, they will charge more, and they will have the time to provide the best service. Most importantly, the best Florida criminal defense lawyers can answer the questions on the checklist with a 'yes,' not an excuse.
Checklist for Hiring A Criminal Defense Lawyer in Florida
Are you certified by the Florida Bar Association and the Florida Supreme Court as a specialist in criminal law? This is the real rating of a Florida criminal lawyer as recognized by the Florida Bar Association.
Does your law firm focus on criminal law exclusively?
Have you handled at least a thousand or more criminal cases?
Are you a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers?
Are you a member of the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers?
Are you a member of your local Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers?
Do other lawyers call you when they have questions about criminal law?
Are you a "Lone Ranger" or do you have a defense team?
Have you ever led a defense team?
Have you handled cases like mine in the past?
Have you had trials in cases like mine in the past?
Have you practiced law for more than ten years?
Have you won any cases that have been reported in the Southern Second Edition Case Reporter?
Are you qualified to handle capital death penalty cases?
Have you ever won a capital case?
Have you ever won any motions to dismiss?
Have you ever won any motions to suppress?
Have you ever won any judge trials?
Have you ever won any jury trials?