If you're dealing with a federal-level criminal case, you're likely going through a very rough time. Federal cases can be life changing, with everything from your career to your freedom on the line. You need a skilled, knowledgeable attorney who will do everything in their power to help you avoid stiff penalties. Use this information to learn more about how to choose the right criminal lawyer for your upcoming federal case.
Look For A Lawyer With Specific Experience
The first thing you want to do is make sure you hire an attorney that has specific experience in handling federal cases. This point is critical, since it could make all of the difference in the outcome of your case.
Understand that criminal cases on the federal level differ from your everyday, run-of-the-mill criminal cases. In some ways, it can be likened to comparing apples to oranges since the ramifications of the two types of trials are typically totally different. While a person who is charged with drug possession may get some time in prison, a federal case could involve not only a prison sentence but the inability to ever work a particular type of job again. If you've built your livelihood on working for the government and are convicted of a federal crime, you could find that your entire financial future is ruined. This could be absolutely detrimental for you and your family.
That's why it is imperative that the attorney you hire has specific experience in working with federal cases. They will know how to build their argument and represent you in the best possible way so that you can hopefully get a lesser sentence.
Seek A Lawyer That Is Well Connected
The next thing you want to do is make sure that you hire an attorney who is well connected. You want someone who is familiar with the judge and possibly even the prosecutor who is bringing the case to trial. The reputation and relationship that the attorney has built among their peers could play a huge role in determining what kind of sentence you are given. If your lawyer has a somewhat amiable relationship with the key players in your case, you may be pleasantly surprised to find that you're not punished as heavily as you otherwise would have been.
Hiring the right federal defense attorney doesn't have to be difficult if you just know what to look for. Start using these tips right away so you can find the perfect criminal attorney to handle your case.