Whether you have been investigated, arrested, or convicted, navigating the criminal process in Indiana can be daunting. The impact of a criminal charge on your life is substantial. That’s why it is critical to hire an experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorney to represent you.
An attorney with local knowledge and courtroom experience is essential for handling your case. A top-rated criminal defense lawyer will thoroughly investigate your situation, consult experts, and develop a strong strategy to achieve the best possible results.
Before hiring a criminal defense attorney in Indiana, we recommend setting up an initial consultation. This meeting will allow you to explain your version of events and give the attorney an opportunity to outline potential legal strategies.
Asking the right questions during your free consultation will help you determine whether the attorney is a good fit for you. Below are some key questions you should ask during your meeting.
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How Long Have You Been Practicing Criminal Law in Indiana?
The attorney you choose to defend you should be highly experienced in practicing criminal law. However, you should also ensure that they’ve represented clients in Indiana facing similar charges to yours.
Even more beneficial is an attorney who has dealt with the same prosecutor who is handling your case. Knowing the strategies and tendencies of the prosecution can give your attorney an advantage in crafting your defense.
Do You Have a Support Staff?
Having a legal team, such as paralegals or legal assistants, can significantly impact an attorney’s ability to manage your case effectively. A lawyer without a support staff may become overwhelmed by their caseload, which can lead to delays or lack of attention to your case.
Asking whether the attorney has a dedicated team ensures that they can focus on important legal matters while administrative tasks are handled efficiently.
What Types of Criminal Cases Do You Usually Handle?
Not all criminal defense attorneys handle the same types of cases. Some may focus solely on DUI matters. However, there are several different types of crimes you could be charged with.
For example, this could include white collar crimes, domestic violence, drug crimes, violent crimes, and probation violations. You should ensure that the attorney has experience with the specific charges you are facing. Handling cases similar to yours will give them the knowledge and skills needed to defend you effectively.
What Will You Do For My Case?
A qualified criminal defense attorney should be able to outline the general steps they will take to defend you, such as:
- Securing your release from police custody
- Consulting criminal experts
- Investigating the specifics of your arrest
- Communicating with the prosecutor
- Researching relevant Indiana laws and cases
Above are just a few examples of how an attorney can assist with your criminal case. Keep in mind that these steps could change depending on the charges you are faced with.
How Will You Defend My Criminal Charges?
Each attorney has a different strategy for defending their clients against criminal charges. They should be able to clearly explain any potential outcomes for your case.
For example, they should discuss:
- The likelihood of a plea agreement
- How to avoid trial, if possible
- What happens if you are convicted
- What to do if you are sentenced
If an attorney cannot discuss the above topics, they may not have experience dealing with your criminal charges. It is important to get an idea of potential outcomes to prepare yourself for the process ahead.
How Often Will You Contact Me?
Strong communication between you and your attorney is critical throughout the criminal process. The best criminal defense attorneys maintain regular contact with their clients, scheduling updates and being available to answer questions.
If an attorney does not prioritize communication or fails to provide consistent updates, it could signal that they aren’t fully invested in your case. Ask how often they will check in with you and whether they’re available for urgent matters outside of regular hours.
How Often Do You Go To Trial?
Criminal defense attorneys may either negotiate plea agreements or go to trial. Many prefer negotiations instead of going to court because you never know how a judge or jury will rule. However, in some cases, a trial can give the accused the opportunity to argue their side of the story.
Ask the attorney about their trial experience to determine whether they are comfortable presenting your defense before a judge or jury if needed. Understanding their court history can help you gauge whether they’re prepared to handle your case should negotiations fail.
How Will Your Legal Fees Work?
Each criminal defense attorney has different billing methods, such as hourly rates, flat fees, or payment plans. You should fully understand their fee structure prior to hiring them.
A trustworthy attorney will present their fees upfront and explain them clearly. Be cautious of anyone who delays fee discussions or provides unclear answers. This could be a red flag.
Where Did You Go To Law School?
Although this question is not a key determining factor, it’ll help you decide whether the attorney is local and has experience with Indiana criminal laws. For example, an attorney who graduated at the top of their class in an Indiana law school could give you peace of mind compared to someone who graduated from an out-of-state law school.
Contact Our Experienced Indianapolis Criminal Defense Attorneys For a Free Initial Consultation
Hiring a top-rated criminal defense attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Make sure that the attorney you choose understands the local courts, has experience with your specific charges, and is committed to providing effective and compassionate representation.
Our Indianapolis criminal defense lawyers have the experience and dedication needed to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome. Contact the experienced Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers today at (317) 759-2599 for a free case review.
