The process of hiring a lawyer can be overwhelming – especially if you have never had to hire one before. Many of our clients find themselves dealing with this difficult task while they are under the stress and uncertainty of criminal charges. You don’t have to go through the process alone.
There are many criminal defense lawyers to choose from in the greater Chicago area. You deserve to know what you can expect from them. If your attorney does not meet these basic standards of professionalism, you can find a different defense lawyer who meets your expectations. Here are a few of the basic expectations your Chicago criminal defense attorney should meet throughout your case:
Your Attorney Will Take Immediate Steps To Protect Your Constitutional Rights
Your constitutional rights are placed in jeopardy long before any criminal charges are filed in court. Anything you say to police officers, detectives, investigators, or prosecutors can be used against you. Your defense attorney will begin working to protect you from contact with police and prosecutors as soon as they are hired. Your attorney will also make immediate efforts to preserve any evidence that is relevant to your case.
If, for example, there is security footage that shows someone else committing the crime you have been accused of, it will be imperative that your attorney finds this evidence before it is erased. These are just a few of the things your attorney does to protect your constitutional rights. The sooner you have a defense lawyer fighting on your side, the better protected your constitutional rights will be.
Your Attorney Will Explain What Is Happening Throughout The Case Process
The criminal case process is daunting for most criminal defendants. If you have never been to court before, it is difficult to learn about the process while facing serious criminal charges. You can expect your lawyer to explain everything that is happening in your case. Keep asking questions until you know what is going on. If you feel that your attorney is being dismissive of your questions or ignoring you altogether, this could be a red flag. You have the right to expect that your questions will be answered, and your lawyer will explain what is happening in your case at every step of the way.
Your Attorney Will Be Reachable Throughout Your Case
One of the most common bar complaints against attorneys is a simple failure to call their clients back. A lack of communication is a bad sign in any professional relationship, but especially when you have serious legal rights at stake. You can expect your attorney to return your calls, emails, or texts within a reasonable time frame.
The Right Criminal Defense Attorneys For All Chicago Cases
When you are facing any criminal charge, you have important legal rights at stake. It is important that you feel comfortable with the attorney you have hired to protect these rights. Contact our office to schedule your free consultation with an experienced Chicago criminal defense lawyer.
