Accusation of a criminal offence is a gravity case and may influence all parts of your life- liberty, work, personal relations and future. Be it DUI, assault, fraud or any other more serious criminal charges, getting the right criminal lawyer in Ottawa to defend your rights and secure the most favorable resolution is paramount to securing or protecting your freedom.
However, with the numerous criminal defense lawyers present, how do you select the one that will suit you? This guide provides the important considerations when searching the best Ottawa criminal lawyer to provide you with legal support and representation.
1. Criminal Law Specialization
Not every attorney deals with criminal law. You want a criminal defense specialist, who is familiar with the ins and outs of the Canadian legal system.
What to watch out for:
- Experience in dealing with criminal cases over the years
- Excellent knowledge of the court practices in Ottawa
- Knowledge and acquaintance with local Crown prosecutors and judges
- Prior familiarity with your kind of charge
The criminal lawyer that practices in the criminal courts on a regular basis will be in a position to better predict the prosecution’s case and offer a better defense.
2. Good Reputation and Testimonials of Clients
The reputation counts, particularly when it comes to legal issues. Investigate the reputation of the lawyer in the legal circle and with the past clients. Seek out Google, legal directory, and Law Society of Ontario site reviews.
Questions:
- Have they been delivering successful case outcomes?
- Do they have referrals by colleagues or previous customers?
- Have they got any awards or honors in the field of criminal law?
Good reviews and a disciplinary record free of complaints are indications that you are dealing with an ethical Legal representative.
3. Proper Communication Skills
Your criminal lawyer must be a communicator and one who updates you on the legal procedure. Legal jargon is intimidating, and your attorney is supposed to communicate to you about your charges, legal alternatives, and your next step in language that you understand.
Consider:
- Do they respond to your queries explicitly?
- Do they pick up the phone or respond to email?
- Do they make you aware of your case status?
Effective communication earns trust and you will never be left wondering about your own case.
4. Open Pricing and Invoicing
Legal charges can quite broadly range and it is always good to know what you will be billed and on what basis the charges will be made. Trustworthy criminal attorneys will give an explanation of all charges in advance and will give a written retainer agreement.
Ask about:
- flat fees and hourly rates
- Other court or investigation expenses
- Financing plans or payments
Stay away from any attorney that promises a certain outcome or is unclear on how he or she will be billed- be transparent.
5. Consolation and Confidence
On top of experience and qualifications, you must be able to get along with your lawyer. Criminal matters are very personal and you will be exposing sensitive information. It should be a person that you trust and feel comfortable to represent your interests.
Final Thoughts
Engaging the appropriate criminal lawyer in Ottawa may be the best decision you will ever make after an arrest or a criminal charge. instead, concentrate on identifying an attorney that practices criminal law, is highly reputable, communicable, and clear on pricing.
There is no need to hurry up with your choice, make appointments and inquire. The right attorney will assist you in defending your rights and your future.
