Blog

When you are facing criminal charges, there are many ways you can go about finding a criminal defense lawyer. You may hire an attorney based on a friend or family member’s recommendation. That person may have had a great experience with that attorney. But you need to be careful. Is that lawyer the right person to represent you in this case? You may search online for attorneys near you, then compare their prices. When you are on a budget, you may be tempted to hire the cheapest attorney. However, a lawyer with lower hourly prices or fixed rates is typically less experienced. Sometimes the more expensive attorney is also not right for you. Who is the right person for your case?

Hiring a Fresno criminal defense lawyer is difficult, particularly when you feel pressure to hire someone right away. Taking the time to look for a defense attorney experienced in your type of case, however, can be the best decision you ever made. Doing so ensures you find the right attorney for you and your case.

If you’re facing criminal charges and need legal help, contact Michael McKneely, Criminal Defense Lawyer today at (559) 443-7442 to schedule a free consultation of your case.

The Right Attorney Is Someone You Can Trust

When you meet with someone new, particularly a professional like a doctor or lawyer, you put a great deal of weight on your first impression. Did you like them, or did they rub you the wrong way? It matters whether or not you like your attorney. This is someone you need to be completely honest with. You need to place your trust in them. If you don’t like your lawyer, will you truly trust them with your case and your freedom? By meeting with a few lawyers before you decide who to hire, you are better able to find a legal representative you know you can trust.

The Right Attorney Handles Your Case the Way You Want

Lawyers face many stereotypes about our personalities and values, but the truth is, we are not all the same. Criminal defense attorneys often have different points of view about the criminal justice system and different strategies we prefer to use when defending our clients. Some lawyers are aggressive and eager to head to trial. Others are less interested in a courtroom battle and often encourage their clients to accept plea bargains.

At Michael McKneely, Criminal Defense Lawyer, we understand the dangers of relying too heavily on one strategy. Every case is unique. We get to know you, your situation, and how you want to handle it before we make any recommendations. We will always be honest with you about what we believe to be the best course of action. However, we will never force you to do something in your case you do not want to do, such as accepting a plea deal. You will have the ultimate decision in your case.

The Right Attorney Shares Your Values

When you work with a criminal defense lawyer, you are going through a stressful situation. You are striving to protect your rights, defend you against aggressive prosecutors, and retain your freedom. Your case can take weeks or months, and you should go through it with someone who shares your values.

When you are reviewing potential defense attorneys, consider the values most important to you. Search for a lawyer who exhibits those in their work. Do not hesitate to bring up your priorities and beliefs during a consultation. Having a frank conversation about what is important to you with a lawyer can help you decide if they are right for your case.

The Right Attorney Communicates With You

Not all lawyers communicate with their clients the same way. Some attorneys rely on legalese that few people outside of a courtroom understand. Even when you ask for better explanations, they may quickly fall back into a language you are unfamiliar with. Another typical communication issue is that busy defense lawyers do not always return emails and phone calls.

The right lawyer is one who communicates in the ways you need. Meeting with attorneys is essential to determine how they communicate regarding California criminal law and your legal rights and options. During your consultation, it is also important to ask about a lawyer’s availability and typical response time.

Facing Criminal Charges? Call Us Today

Michael McKneely, Criminal Defense Lawyer has been defending California residents since he opened his own firm in 2007. Prior to his defense work, he was a Deputy District Attorney in Fresno, which gives him a unique perspective during his criminal cases. He knows how to think like a prosecutor – because he was one.

To talk with attorney McKneely about your case, call (559) 443-7442, or reach out online to schedule a free consultation.