When you have an upcoming criminal court arraignment and you need a criminal defense attorney capable of defending you to the fullest extent, it is best to research multiple law firms prior to hiring a legal professional. You also have to be willing to go with your gut based your interactions with criminal defense attorney you consult with. Although it is better to have a dearth of criminal defense attorneys to choose from instead of just a few, being overwhelmed with options certainly isn't going to make your final decision any easier. Make coming to a decision clearer by remembering how vital it is that you choose a lawyer who has adequate experience in defending clients who have criminal charges pending against them.

Your Time Is Respected

Don't take it personally if your criminal defense attorney doesn't want to spend the first few minutes of your consultation trying to get to know you personally. What is most important is learning the background of your case and what other parties and factors may may be most influential. A good criminal defense wants to know only the facts pertaining to your criminal charges and subsequent arrest. This is the only information your attorney needs to present a solid defense on your behalf.

All Your Questions Are Definitively Answered

If you have questions about your pending charges or your criminal record, ask them clearly and concisely. Your attorney should not only be able to look up any past criminal convictions but also see all future court dates. Realize that a criminal defense attorney can only give you possibilities as to how your case will be handled and resolved. During the time that you speak with your attorney, be sure to mention all scheduling conflicts or other related concerns that you have so that the appropriate legal paperwork can be submitted to the court in a timely fashion.

No Guarantees Are Made

Even if you believe that you have an airtight defense, your criminal defense attorney cannot guarantee that you will be acquitted. You might feel like you are being prepared for the worst, and in a way that is exactly what a competent defense attorney would do. Until you arrive in court with your attorney, this prosecutor makes his or her case and the judge renders a ruling, it would be unwise and unethical for your attorney to give you false hope. In some criminal cases, criminal defense attorneys are able to negotiate with the prosecuting attorneys and agree to downgraded charges or plea bargains, but until the judge accepts an outside agreement you will need to remain focused on your criminal defense.