From Our Desk

Choosing the right criminal lawyer is an important decision that can ensure you get the best possible result for your case. Here are some important things to think about when selecting the best criminal lawyer for you. 

Experience in Criminal Law 

• Specialisation: Select a specialist criminal law firm as they will possess a more profound comprehension of the legal nuances and criminal procedures that will relate to your case.
• Track Record:  Seek a criminal defence lawyer with a great deal of experience handling cases just like yours. For instance, Doyles Guide lists Nick Dore of Fisher Dore Lawyers as one of Queensland's top criminal lawyers.

• Experience: If you are facing any kind of criminal charge such as Domestic Violence, DUI, theft, assault, or another—find a criminal lawyer who has experience with cases comparable to yours. Skilled criminal lawyers are better able to foresee the tactics of the prosecution and skillfully refute them.

Reputation 

• Client Testimonials and Reviews:  Look up online Google reviews, ratings, awards and client testimonials. Recommendations from friends or family can also yield insightful information.
• Suggested Readings: A lawyer's reputation may be well-indicated by whether or not they are well-liked by their colleagues in the legal profession and have won honours or other recognition such as the Doyle's Guide.

Accreditation 

• Legal Accreditation: There are numerous state-based accreditation programmes in Australia for criminal law experts. Lawyers who hold this accreditation have demonstrated their proficiency in criminal law through a series of rigors exams.

Clear and Open Communication: 

The lawyer should be able to translate technical legal jargon into understandable and simple terms. They should also be approachable and quick to respond to your questions.
• Personal Rapport: Since criminal law cases can be stressful, getting along well with your lawyer is crucial. You need someone you can trust and who makes you feel at ease.

Costs and Fees 

• Fee Structure: It's crucial to talk about fees up front because criminal defence can be costly. 
• Openness: Make sure the lawyer is open and honest about their fees as well as any other expenses, like administrative fees, expert witness fees, or court fees.

Local Knowledge

• Familiarity with Local Courts: You may benefit from having a criminal lawyer who regularly practices in the court where your case will be heard. They may know the judges, prosecutors, and court employees in the area, which can be helpful when navigating the legal system.

Also select a lawyer who is conveniently located in the area or close to the court where your case is being tried. This can help prevent delays in your case and make meetings more convenient.

Ethical Standing

• No False Promises: Lawyers who pledge a particular result should be avoided. A competent attorney will be honest with you about the advantages and disadvantages of your case.

Resources

• Team Support: Some lawyers are employed by firms with a team of crime experts, which can offer more resources and support for your case.
• Expertise in Related Areas:  A lawyer with experience in these areas or access to specialists can be beneficial if your case involves particular issues such as domestic violence and assault charges.

Success Rate 

The percentage of cases a criminal defence lawyer wins is a good measure of their success rate. Although no lawyer can promise a particular result, those with a strong track record of success are more likely to offer capable counsel.

The above are some general pointers for anyone who might have to deal with accusations of criminal charge or nature. If you have found yourself in this situation, get in touch with Fisher Dore Lawyers to schedule a meeting with one of our criminal defence team right away. 

Call us after hours on 0416 205 363. During business hours, the Fisher Dore Lawyers team is available for enquiries on 1300 557 884 or send a confidential enquiry through our website.