When you are arrested and charged with a crime, the decisions you make in the days and weeks following can be critical to the outcome of your case. One of the most important decisions is who will represent you in court. Many criminal defence attorneys are available, but not all are created equal. Here are some things to look for when choosing New Jersey lawyers:
- Experience – Look for an attorney with experience in criminal law. An experienced attorney will know the ins and outs of the criminal justice system and will be better equipped to handle your case.
- Knowledge – Your attorney should thoroughly understand the law relating to your charges. They should be able to explain the possible outcomes of your case and help you make informed decisions about how to proceed.
- Adherence to the Code of Professional Responsibility – An attorney who adheres to the code of professional responsibility practices by the ethical standards required by members of the Bar Association.
When considering whether or not to retain a criminal attorney in New Jersey, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- It is important to consider the severity of your charges.
- Finding an attorney with experience with your specific case and district is important.
- Understanding the lawyer’s fees and how they will be billed is important.
- It is important to ensure that the lawyer you choose has adequate experience presenting evidence in court.
Types of attorneys in New Jersey:
When most people think of an attorney, the first image that comes to mind is a criminal defence lawyer. However, there are many different types of attorneys, and each has a unique role within the legal system. New Jersey lawyers consist of three main types of attorneys: public defenders, public pretenders, and private practitioners.
The government employs public defenders to represent indigent defendants in criminal cases. They are usually very well-trained and experienced lawyers who work on a salary rather than charging by the hour. Public pretenders are private attorneys who offer reduced rates to low-income clients. They often do not have as much experience as public defenders, but they can be a great option for people who can’t afford to hire a private lawyer.
Private practitioners are the most common type of attorney in New Jersey. They are usually well trained but not as well paid as public defenders. They often work on a fee-for-service basis, which means they charge by the hour and do not require you to pay for their court costs or travel expenses.
