Hiring a lawyer can feel stressful, so we hope these tips for choosing a criminal defense attorney in Fresno will give you clarity and help you move forward with confidence that you’re making a good decision.

Choosing the right attorney is an important decision. After all, who you choose to represent you and help you fight the criminal charges you’re facing can have an impact on the outcome of your case.

So, you want to choose wisely.

Here are some tips to help you do so …

Hire your Criminal Defense Attorney as Soon as Possible

In criminal proceedings, it’s best to have an attorney on your side as early as possible. Don’t wait and think things will resolve on their own. Sometimes there are things your attorney can do to help you even before your case goes to court. So, don’t delay! Hire an attorney right away.

Choose a Local Criminal Defense Attorney

It’s best if your lawyer has experience with your local courthouse, officials, and procedures. Like the home field advantage in sports, hiring a local attorney gives you an advantage because they’ll know what to expect from the other people and agencies involved in your case.

Look for an Attorney Experienced with Cases Like Yours

Criminal law is complex, and the stakes can be high. So your best choice in a criminal defense attorney to represent you is someone who has a proven track record of fighting for their clients with cases similar to yours.

Be Prepared with Questions

As you’re evaluating your options and determining the best choice for you, have questions prepared in advance to ask each of the attorneys that you’re considering. Look at our list of 10 questions to ask a criminal defense lawyer to get you started, but also add questions specific to your case as well.

Check Their Avvo Rating

An Avvo rating can give you insight into an attorney’s background and practice areas. It’s also a place where you can read reviews from past clients. It’s not a replacement for interviewing the attorney to see if they’re a good fit, but it’s one place to start or to get additional non-biased information.

Understand what Makes a Good Criminal Defense Attorney

A good attorney has compassion and empathy for their clients. They are ethical and honest about your case and your options without making empty promises about getting you a specific outcome. They listen to you. They’re willing to fight to get you the best possible outcome.

Ask about Fees and Possible Payment Plans

Don’t shy away from asking your potential lawyer about what it will cost to hire them. They should be able to estimate the costs involved in defending your case. And most are willing to work with you on payments. Mark Broughton offers payment plans based on the complexity of the case as well as your ability to pay.

Have More Questions Regarding Criminal Defense?

We do our best to answer common questions on our FAQ Page.

Do You Need Legal Help?

Mark Broughton is a criminal defense lawyer in Fresno who will fight to get you the best possible outcome. In his 40+ years of experience, he has conducted trials in both state and Federal Court. He sees every individual’s situation with compassion and empathy. And he believes that every person has the right to a fair trial and is innocent until proven guilty.

If you need the help of a criminal defense lawyer, call 559-691-6222 or click here to request a free consultation. We’ll get back to you right away.