If you’re a Phoenix resident who’s facing drug charges, it only makes sense that you’d be frightened and concerned about what happens next. What do accusations like these mean for your future? How likely is it that you’ll wind up convicted, and what should you be doing now to lower the chances of that happening?
Questions and concerns like these are exactly why the first thing you should do when charged with a drug offense is to hire an attorney to represent you. But don’t let the seriousness of the situation (and the anxiety you feel) lead you to a hasty decision, because who you hire to represent you matters. Here’s how to ensure a wise decision.
Experience Winning Similar Cases
Law is just like any other field in that the more experience a particular professional has, the more likely they are to actually be good at their job. And don’t assume hiring a lawyer who specializes in criminal defense is enough, either.
Make sure the professional or firm you’re considering has adequate hands-on experience defending those accused of drug crimes. It’s also crucial that they can show you examples of cases they’ve won that included circumstances similar to yours.
Thorough Knowledge Of Local Protocol
Every state has its own laws governing the use, sale, or possession of various illegal drugs, so it should go without saying that you need to hire a lawyer with a thorough understanding
of Arizona state drug law. But you’ll want to make sure your choice knows the lay of the land when it comes to the city and the general area where you reside, as well.
For example, authorities may do things slightly differently in Phoenix than they will in Scottsdale, Tucson, or Arizona City. The right lawyer for you will be aware of what these differences are, the better to properly build a case for you and defend you against the charges.
Informed Answers To Your Questions
Never assume that all drug lawyers who technically have the right experience are
automatically equal to one another. It’s important to make sure the attorney you choose is not only capable of thoroughly answering all of your questions but able to do so in a way that inspires confidence. Some sample questions to consider bringing up with each candidate include:
- How long have you been practicing law?
- How long have you been practicing drug law, in particular?
- Who will be working on my case besides yourself?
- What can you tell me about cases you’ve worked on that are similar to mine?
Generally speaking, you should walk away from your initial consultation feeling a good deal better and more confident in your ability to potentially beat the charges you’re facing.
Personality That Gels With Yours
Yes, it’s crucial that your lawyer be experienced, qualified, and knowledgeable when it
comes to your case and charges, but it’s not enough for them to look good on paper from a technical standpoint. It’s just as important that you get along with them well as a person.
Keep in mind that this is your life on the line. Do you really want to leave it in the hands of someone you don’t like or who seems uninterested in your case?
That said, make sure your Phoenix drug lawyer of choice has a good bedside manner that puts your mind at ease. Do you feel comfortable asking them additional questions or going to them for help with anything to do with your case? Were they and their staff kind, attentive,
compassionate, and astute?
If not, keep looking. Truly great attorneys never lose sight of the fact that their clients are people first and clients second. Don’t settle for anything less.
