When you have been charged with a DUI, domestic violence, assault and battery, or any other type of crime in Massachusetts, you have the right to defend yourself against charges. In order to improve the chances that your criminal case is resolved in a manner that best protects your interests, you need to work with a criminal defense lawyer.
As you search for a criminal defense lawyer, you no doubt want to hire someone who is experienced and effective. Here are some of the top characteristics to look for in a Massachusetts criminal defense lawyer–
Trial Experience
If your case goes to trial, which is possible in the event that you do not accept a plea bargain and instead choose to defend yourself against charges, you want an attorney who is experienced both in and out of the courtroom. Working with a criminal defense attorney who isn’t comfortable during a trial may harm your case.
Investigative Skills
A criminal defense attorney needs to be a good investigator and researcher in order to win a case. In addition to researching your own case and collecting evidence (and analyzing the evidence) related to the crime with which you have been charged, your attorney will also need to be able to research case law and determine if any precedents have been set that are relevant to your case.
Compassion & Determination
Working with an attorney who is not compassionate, who is not interested in the outcome of your case, who does not believe your story, or who is not determined to win your case for you is a very bad decision, and could have a huge impact on your future. You want to work with an attorney who believes in what they do and believes in you and your side of the story, and who is committed to working hard for you.
Effective Communication Skills
Being an effective communicator is one of the most important characteristics that an attorney can possess. Throughout the entire process of defending a client, an attorney needs to be able to effectively communicate with a wide range of parties, including police, prosecutors, their client, the judge, witnesses, experts, and more. An inability to effectively convey information, and listen to others and process information received, can damage your case.
How Do I Know If I’m Hiring a Good Lawyer?
During an initial consultation with an attorney, it can be hard to know whether or not you are hiring one who meets all of the criteria listed above. It is important to ask the attorney many questions about their background, experience, and case history, as well as what their role is during the entire process. An attorney who has a track record of successful cases is more likely to posses the qualities above.
At The Law Offices of Paul R. Moraski, our experience criminal defense attorney truly cares about providing you with the level of representation that you deserve. For a free consultation, contact Paul on his cell phone today at (978) 397-0011. You can also contact our law office via the intake form on our website.