what questions to ask an attorney to represent you in a murder case

Some relevant questions to ask are:

• What are my legal options? Would you recommend a guilty plea, a plea agreement, or a trial?
• What aspects of my case work in my favor?
• What potential problems do you foresee with my case?
• What can I expect at the different stages of the process, including arraignment, filing of motions, motions hearing, disposition, and trial?

Full Answer

What questions should I ask when hiring a criminal defense lawyer?

Also, ask about the lawyer’s past experiences on such cases. If you find the lawyer suitable then you can ask them to represent your case in the court of justice. do make sure that all the due procedures of documentations are followed properly and take a copy for yourself. I’ve never tried SiriusXM – what makes it so good?

How do you ask a lawyer to represent you in court?

Say to the lawyer “I’d like you to represent me in [matter]. Is this something you can do?” You should make sure that the lawyer in question has expertise relevant to whatever it is you need to be represented for.

What should I look for when hiring a lawyer?

Getting a lawyer with the right legal background is essential, but it is also important to know whether your attorney has experience with the judges who will likely preside over your case. Three: Have you ever been sanctioned for, or accused of, attorney misconduct?

How to choose the right lawyer for your case?

A lawyer who has the right background can often save you time and money, all the while getting the best result possible. And don’t take a simple “Yes” for a sufficient answer. Ask follow-up questions, such as where and when any similar cases went to trial and their results, to ensure the attorney really knows the subject matter.

What questions should I ask a defense attorney?

15 Questions To Ask Before Hiring a Defense AttorneyHow long have you practiced criminal law? ... What are your educational and professional credentials? ... Have you handled cases like mine before? ... What is your success rate? ... Do you have any testimonials from past clients that I can read? ... How often do your cases go to trial?More items...

What are some good questions to ask a lawyer?

Questions to Ask Your Lawyer During a Consultation1) What kind of experience do you have with similar cases?2) What would be your strategy for my case?3) Are there any alternatives to going to court?4) What are my possible outcomes?5) Who will actually handle my case?6) What is my role in my case?More items...

What are 3 questions you should ask a lawyer before hiring?

Five Questions You Should Ask:Will you be the attorney personally handling my case?Will you take the case all the way to trial if necessary?What results have you obtained in the past for cases like mine?Can I call or email you directly with questions I have about my case?More items...

Should you confess to your attorney?

It's almost always advisable to tell your lawyer the whole truth about your case, even if you've committed a crime. Giving your lawyer all the facts helps them craft the best defense by raising reasonable doubt. Even when a client admits guilt, there are usually many mitigating circumstances that can come into play.

What should you not say to a lawyer?

9 Taboo Sayings You Should Never Tell Your LawyerI forgot I had an appointment. ... I didn't bring the documents related to my case. ... I have already done some of the work for you. ... My case will be easy money for you. ... I have already spoken with 5 other lawyers. ... Other lawyers don't have my best interests at heart.More items...•

What is the hardest question to ask a lawyer?

12 Tough Questions to Ask a LawyerWhat's your opinion of the probate process?Under what conditions do you recommend a Living Trust?How do I protect my children from abusive relatives if something happens to me?Can I keep my kids from controlling their entire inheritance at 18?More items...•

What you should know before you talk to a lawyer?

10 Things You Should Know Before Contacting a LawyerHave Your Documents Ready. ... Research the Elements of Your Case. ... Don't Call if You Just Have a Question. ... You May Not Speak to a Lawyer Right Away. ... Do Not Ask the Legal Support Staff for Advice. ... Don't Provide Too Much Information. ... Answer the Lawyer's Specific Questions.More items...•

What is an attorney vs lawyer?

However, when practising law, lawyers can only provide legal assistance, advice, and counselling to their clients while an attorney can represent clients in court and initiate defendant prosecutions in addition to providing legal counsel and consultation.

How do you ask a question like a lawyer?

0:135:25How to ask questions like a lawyer - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe first secret is that what we're doing we're not really asking questions what we're doing isMoreThe first secret is that what we're doing we're not really asking questions what we're doing is making statements. That sound like questions and those are statements that the witness.

Can a lawyer snitch on you?

A good lawyer who abides by the Rules of Professional Conduct cannot disclose any information about the business or affairs of his or her client except in very limited and specified circumstances, such as where there is an imminent risk of death or serious bodily harm, and disclosure is necessary to prevent the death ...

Do you tell your lawyer if you're guilty?

If you tell your lawyer that you are guilty of a criminal offence, they can still represent you. However, if you wish to plead 'not guilty' then your lawyer cannot positively suggest that you did not commit the offence.

What if a lawyer knows his client is guilty?

If your lawyer is aware that you are guilty and you want to defend the charges against you, your best solution is to find another lawyer to represent you. This is because a lawyer who is aware of your guilt can only defend you by 'putting the prosecution to proof'.

What you should know before you talk to a lawyer?

10 Things You Should Know Before Contacting a LawyerHave Your Documents Ready. ... Research the Elements of Your Case. ... Don't Call if You Just Have a Question. ... You May Not Speak to a Lawyer Right Away. ... Do Not Ask the Legal Support Staff for Advice. ... Don't Provide Too Much Information. ... Answer the Lawyer's Specific Questions.More items...•

What are good interrogation questions?

Questioning the ReporterWhat happened? ... What was the date, time, and duration of the incident or behavior?How many times did this happen, that you're aware of?Where did it happen?How did it happen?Did anyone else see it happen? ... Was there physical contact? ... What did you do in response to the incident or behavior?More items...•

How do you ask a question like a lawyer?

0:135:25How to ask questions like a lawyer - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe first secret is that what we're doing we're not really asking questions what we're doing isMoreThe first secret is that what we're doing we're not really asking questions what we're doing is making statements. That sound like questions and those are statements that the witness.

What is an attorney vs lawyer?

However, when practising law, lawyers can only provide legal assistance, advice, and counselling to their clients while an attorney can represent clients in court and initiate defendant prosecutions in addition to providing legal counsel and consultation.

1. What information do you need from me?

When seeking to move forward with a criminal defense attorney, you want to know what types of information and documentation they might need from you.

2. What do you need in order to properly evaluate my case?

During any initial consultation with an attorney, it is wise to make sure they have all the information and documentation they may need to accurately assess your case. The attorney should be able to evaluate the merits of the charges brought against you by reviewing the information and/or complaint filed by the People.

3. How long will the case take?

Even though every case can vary on its slated trajectory through the California criminal court system, there is indeed a general timetable by which particular cases flow.

4. What steps can I take to secure the lowest sentencing possible?

Although this may be a tough question to answer depending on your specific circumstances, you want to get a sense of the attorney’s ability to advise on future activity and his/her level of concern about the consequences of client’s behavior.

5. How can I make sure to stay in contact with you?

Attorneys are busy by the nature of their jobs. So, it’s hard to expect an attorney to be perpetually available. However, finding yourself facing criminal charges is a daunting experience and you want an attorney who will not only zealously represent you, but who will also keep you informed on the progression of every step concerning your case.

6. How long have you practiced law?

It is important to know the professional background of the attorney you may hire. What overall experience does the attorney possess? When stepping into a courtroom, every defendant should feel that they have a knowledgeable, seasoned and aggressive attorney by their side.

7. What kind of cases have you handled before?

When looking for the right attorney to represent you in your criminal matter, you want to make sure you hire someone with the appropriate expertise relating to your particular charge.

What to tell your lawyer about your arrest?

Be prepared to tell your lawyer about any police interaction that you had prior to your arrest, during your arrest, and while you were detained. Providing your lawyer with a detailed account of your experience is very important because if the police violated your civil rights your lawyer may be able to get your charges dismissed, even if you are guilty. Therefore, it is a good idea to ask your lawyer during the initial consultation if they think that your civil rights were violated in any way.

How to pick a criminal defense lawyer?

Picking a criminal defense lawyer who has experience representing clients who have been in your position is very important, as these attorneys are already familiar with this area of the law and will be able to hit the ground running. Also, keep in mind that not all criminal defense lawyers have experience representing the same types of defendants. For example, if you are facing murder charges a criminal defense lawyer who has been practicing law for 10 years representing DUI defendants probably is not as well equipped to represent you as an attorney who has been representing murder defendants for the past five years. Don’t be shy – ask your lawyer how long they have been practicing criminal law, what percentage of their cases involve clients facing the same charge as you, and any other question that will help you judge how much experience they have handling your type of criminal case.

What are some examples of alternative punishments?

For example, an alternative punishment may include home detention, community service, probation, therapy, or work programs. During your initial consultation it is important to ask your lawyer if there are any sentencing alternatives available. Be sure to also discuss the pros and cons of any proposed sentencing alternatives that may be available to you.

What should an experienced criminal defense attorney do?

However, an experienced criminal defense attorney should be able to analyze your case, talk about the possible legal outcomes, and predict what is likely to happen in your case. Keep in mind that there is a big difference between an attorney who guarantees an outcome and one who predicts what is likely to happen.

Why is it important to retain a lawyer?

Apart from hiring a lawyer who is experienced, professional, and knowledgeable, it is also very important to retain a lawyer who you trust and have confidence in. By simply asking the attorney sitting across from you why you should hire them you are giving them a chance to sell themselves to you and hopefully their response will inspire confidence. It is very important that you have confidence in your attorney’s abilities and trust them because this will enable the two of you to work together to build the best legal defense possible.

Do lawyers have to disclose conflicts of interest?

For example, the lawyer that you are interviewing may have a conflict of interest if they are already representing the co-defendant in your criminal case. Even though your lawyer is required to disclose any conflict of interest to you it is still a very good idea to ask this question during your initial consultation.

Can an attorney be sanctioned for misconduct?

You may feel slightly awkward asking this question but it is important that you do. You have a right to know if your attorney has ever been sanctioned for attorney misconduct, and while you can obtain this information from your state bar association asking your attorney about any misconduct in person gives them a chance to explain the circumstances surrounding a violation.

What to consider when choosing an attorney?

Consider who your attorney has worked with most often. Are their clients typically corporations or individuals? These unique experiences could influence how they approach and handle your case.

Why do people ask specific questions?

Most people who need a service ask specific questions to help them make a good decision, and this same approach should also be taken by someone who’s in need of legal services.

What happens in the last option of a trial?

In the last option, the lawyer will be awarded a portion of the money won in a successful trial.

Is it beneficial to have a lawyer practice in the same courthouse?

It may be beneficial for your lawyer to have practiced in the same courthouse where your case will be . They will have had interacted with and experiences its judge and can, therefore, evaluate the expectations for your case.

Can you ask a lawyer how many cases similar to yours?

C) In relation to the previous sub-questions, it’s okay to ask the lawyer how many cases similar to yours they’ve won. Remember: this is a “job interview” for the attorney. It’s similar to an employer asking you how about previous successes that are relevant to the role for which you’re applying.

DISCOVERY -- EVIDENCE -- INVESTIGATION

DISCOVERY -- EVIDENCE -- INVESTIGATION Has your lawyer obtained and reviewed all "Discovery", including: police reports, witness statements, video and audio tapes, photographs and other material provided through "discovery" by the Prosecutor? Has the attorney made copies of all of it and reviewed it with you? What is your attorney's evaluation of the evidence? What is the "worst evidence" against you? Has you attorney considered not only what evidence is there, but what evidence is not there (missing)? What physical or testimony evidence does the prosecution rely on open to challenge? Or what evidence does the DA not have that could mean dismissal of your case? Are there eyewitnesses that should be interviewed? What sort of defense investigation should be conducted to find that evidence to disprove your guilt?.

CLIENT ACTIONS - What should you do?

CLIENT ACTIONS - What should you do? Sometimes there are steps you can (and should) take which will dramatically lessen your sentence.

STRATEGY

STRATEGY What is your lawyer's preliminary evaluation of the case against you? What defenses are available to you? What is the best defense strategy? What are the risks and benefits of strategy? Can your attorney mount a successful defense at trial or is it in your best interests to plea bargain?

COSTS

COSTS How much defense investigation needs to be done, and what will it cost? Do you need to hire Expert Witnesses to testify for you at trial? How much will they cost? Is their testimony worth it? What is the time table preparing for trial; how long will the trial last and what will it cost?

SENTENCING ALTERNATIVES

SENTENCING ALTERNATIVES Are there any Sentencing Alternatives to standard Jail that you may be eligible for, such as electronic home detention, Sheriff's Work Program, Work Furlough, or community service? Are there any standard or creative Probationary Terms that are preferable to you which will satisfy the prosecution and court's concerns and allow you to receive a lesser sentence, easier to accept? Some clients want to avoid fines, others want to keep their driver's license, others want to avoid jail, and others who are not citizens, just want to remain in the U.S.

MOTIONS -- Legal Defenses (Due Process and your constitutional rights

CONCLUSION This case is not just any case; it’s your case! You deserve the best defense from an attorney who considers all of these questions.

What to say when you're going through a divorce?

I don’t need them to have tons of empathy and sympathy, but you want them to care. You want them to be passionate . As a criminal defendant , I was freaked out. I was scared to death. I didn’t know what to do. If you’re going through a divorce or a civil issue, you’re suing or being sued, it’s a very big deal.

Do civil lawyers do the same thing?

A number of civil lawyers will do absolutely the same thing. It’s nice to fix and lock the fee. It’s nice to know what it’s going to cost. The downside at times to an inclusive fee is you may not feel as if they’re doing all of the work, because they’ve already been paid.

Do you have to scratch a bankruptcy check?

If you hire bankruptcy, civil, criminal, whatever type of lawyer it may be, and they say it’s 50,000, 100,000, 200,000, you don’t need to scratch them a check at once. They haven’t done any of the work.

Facing Murder Charges in Pennsylvania

Learn about Pennsylvania murder defense lawyers in Chester County Pennsylvania and what to do if you or a loved one is facing accusations or criminal homicide charges. Facing homicide and murder allegations is a pivotable moment in a person’s life.

Getting the Best Defense where you are facing Murder Charges

Reach out to the Ciccarelli Legal Team, when you are facing a murder charges in the greater Philadelphia metro area, including Chester County, Bucks County, Delaware County, Lancaster County, Montgomery County and throughout Pennsylvania. Then ask yourself, why you are not calling now and scheduling a time to meet with the team.

Questions to Ask before you Hire your Criminal Lawyer in Chester County PA

While other felony charges are also very serious, charges such as drug charges, DUIs, assault charges or charges of burglary will cause you problems but will rarely derail the remainder of your life.

Get the right Defense When facing Pennsylvania First Degree Murder Charges

When you or a loved one is facing first degree murder allegations or charges, gain the benefit and experience of the Ciccarelli Legal Team. The Ciccarelli Legal Team has years of experience defending clients, demanding justice and fighting for acquittals.

What should a lawyer outline?

Lawyers should outline the possible ways to handle a case and then explain why they have chosen a particular strategy, including the pros and cons.

What should a lawyer review with their clients before trial?

Every lawyer should review with their clients the possibility of a negotiated resolution prior to trial. In criminal matters, for example, you may be able to get a good plea bargain. In civil cases, your lawyer might propose mediation, a settlement negotiation process involving a neutral third-party.

What is the importance of having a lawyer?

Getting a lawyer with the right legal background is essential, but it is also important to know whether your attorney has experience with the judges who will likely preside over your case. If yours is a criminal matter, it is important to know if your lawyer knows the local prosecutors. This courtroom experience can greatly enhance your lawyer’s ability to evaluate the likely outcomes in your case and give you advice that you can rely on.

Why is it important to choose the right lawyer?

Choosing the right lawyer is a very important decision—whether you were in a car accident, have a medical malpractice claim, or find yourself the target of a criminal investigation. Referrals from friends or co-workers can be great, but you need to do your homework to make sure you have the right attorney for the job.

How to discuss case strategy?

In discussing case strategy, your lawyer should give you an estimate of how much time it will take to get to a resolution. Keep in mind that your lawyer does not control the pace of the process and cannot make any promises about when it will be over.

What is a conflict in a lawyer?

If the lawyer’s representation of prior or existing clients would limit the attorney’s ability to represent you, there is likely a conflict. For example, if you want to sue a hospital that the potential lawyer regularly represents, there would be a conflict. A conflict might also arise if the attorney you are interviewing has already been hired by ...

How to feel comfortable with an attorney?

You should feel comfortable from the beginning of your attorney-client relationship that you will be able to have regular communications with your counsel. Make sure that you exchange contact information and agree on the ways that you will stay in touch.

What to say to a lawyer about matter?

Say to the lawyer “I’d like you to represent me in [matter]. Is this something you can do?”

How to fix an appointment with a lawyer?

You may first send an email or make a call to the law and inquire about their office timings, past cases, fees and availability of the lawyers to fix an appointment. Once you appointment is schedule, you can visit the firm on the scheduled date, day and time and discuss your case history. Also, ask about the lawyer’s past experiences on such cases.

Do lawyers work by the hour?

Some lawyers work by the hour. If you’re interviewing one of those, have your checkbook out and visible. I work on contingency fee. I want to know where the money is. I open with questions about corporations and limited liability companies. The client will be describing what a jerk their boss was and I’m on line looking up the employer in the Secretary of State business registry. I might ask about assets like second cars and vacation homes. Bank accounts and safe deposit boxes.