If you are charged with a crime in North Carolina, it’s important to protect yourself right away. One of the first steps is finding an experienced criminal defense lawyer. Before you hire someone, it helps to know what to look for in a Raleigh criminal defense attorney and what questions to ask during your first meeting.

What Questions Should I Ask a Raleigh Criminal Defense Attorney?

You can start your first meeting by asking the criminal defense lawyer some basic questions about their work. Good questions to ask include:

• What will you do for me during my case? This question helps you understand how the lawyer will support you and what kind of help you can expect as your case progresses.
• Have you handled cases like mine before? If you are facing criminal charges, it’s important to partner with a Raleigh criminal defense attorney who has real-world experience. You want someone who has worked on cases similar to yours and knows how to handle them successfully.
• What is your background and training? Ask where they went to school, how long they have been practicing law, and whether or not they are board-certified. This will help you understand their qualifications and experience.
• Will you handle my case yourself? It sometimes happens that the lawyer you meet is not the one who will actually be working on your case. Inquire about who will be in charge of your case and whether other lawyers or staff will also be involved.
• How much will this cost? In order to hire a lawyer, you need money, obviously, so it’s important to know the cost upfront. Ask how fees work, how much you will owe, and when payments are due. You should also understand that you may still need to pay even if the case does not turn out the way you hoped.

What Questions Should I Ask About My Case?

You should also ask the lawyer questions about how the criminal process works and how it applies to your case. Some questions you may want to ask include:

• What penalties could I face? Ask about what might happen if you are convicted. Understanding the potential punishments can help you decide how to move your case forward, such as whether or not to fight the charges or maybe even consider a plea deal.
• What choices do I have? Ask to have your options explained to you, including how to enter a plea. While you can plead not guilty, it’s important to understand all possible ways to handle your case.
• What should I expect as my case moves forward? Criminal cases involve a lot of steps, including court dates, hearings, and meetings. The process is detailed and confusing, so it is essential to understand what happens during each phase and the best way to prepare.
• Can I get out on bail? If you are arrested and thrown in jail, you may be able to post bail. The amount typically hinges on what you were charged with and your specific situation.

What Qualities Should I Look For in a Raleigh Criminal Defense Attorney?

When choosing a Raleigh criminal defense attorney, you need to think about:

• Past results: Ask the lawyer about their track record. Find out how often they have had good outcomes in cases like yours. If a lawyer rarely succeeds, they may not be the right choice for you.
• Experience: A lawyer who has been practicing for a long time usually understands the criminal process better. It also helps if the lawyer has experience handling cases in court.
• Resources: Work with a law firm that has enough staff, time, and money to handle your case properly. Criminal cases often require investigations, expert help, and careful preparation, which take real resources to do right.
• Compassion: Choose a lawyer who treats you with respect and understands what you are going through. A lawyer who truly cares about you is more likely to fight hard for your rights.

Call Ryan Willis Law Today

Facing criminal charges is equal parts confusing and terrifying, but you do not have to go through it alone. The right lawyer can explain your options, protect your rights, and guide you every step of the way. To speak with a Raleigh criminal defense attorney, contact Ryan Willis Law at (919) 341-6294 or fill out the contact form on our website for a confidential consultation.