How To Find a Good Criminal Defense Lawyer in Columbus, Ohio: 6 Key Tips

In the world of the criminal system, if you land in hot water, the absolute very first thing you need to do is lock down the best criminal defense lawyer for you. Many people do not realize just how life-changing it can be to get wrapped up in the legal system. A good defense lawyer will be your sword and your shield, and will do everything he can to get you the best outcome possible.

There are many ways to go about finding a good criminal defense lawyer in Columbus, Ohio, but here are 6 tips that can help:

Tip 1: Look Into Referrals

Word of mouth is often a way that clients find their way to lawyers. When someone is overwhelmed by the situation they are facing, it is often comforting to pursue a recommendation from someone you trust, whether it is another professional, a family member, or a friend. Especially if the referral comes from another satisfied client or an acquaintance of one, then this is a lead worth pursuing. After all, if someone you know is willing to recommend someone, it is a way of saying that they would trust you in their hands.

But don't just blindly trust a referral—make sure you sit down and talk with the attorney to see if he or she is good fit for you.

Tip 2: Reputation

There is a reason why people often say you're only as good as your reputation. Find out what kind of reputation an attorney has. Do they have a reputation for being tough and aggressive in the courtroom? Are they compassionate and caring towards clients and family members? Do they listen well and communicate frequently about the status their client's cases? Does the legal community respect them? Are they prepared and serious about their work? These are all factors in someone's reputation. You can find out the answers to a lot of these questions by doing a bit of sleuthing. Checking online is a good start. See if what comes up when you Google them. Check to see if they have had any professional disciplinary actions against them by looking them up in the Supreme Court of Ohio Attorney Services website. If you know people who have used them in the past, get their opinions.

Tip 3: Check Out Their Website

Don't underestimate how much information you can find on an attorney's website. This is where they showcase what they value and who they are. Find out what practice areas they specialize in to see if your case fits into their wheelhouse. If they post blogs, read them to get insight into what their perspectives might be. Another great resource on some attorney websites are testimonials. See what other clients have said about their experience working with the attorney.

Tip 4: Ask Questions During a Consultation

I know that being charged with a crime is incredibly overwhelming and you may feel a wide array of negative feelings, but try to remain calm and begin gathering as much helpful information as possible.

Think about your side of the story and get copies of any documents that might be useful such as medical records, witness statements, the police report, and any relevant photos. Before meeting with an attorney, write down all the questions you have so that you come prepared to discuss how the attorney can be of help to you. The first meeting with an attorney will give you a very good sense of how the attorney conducts themselves and what you can expect from working with them. I offer free, confidential consultations so that clients can sit down with me without the apprehension of feeling committed before getting to know how I can help. Take note of how the attorney treats you, their staff, and even other clients while you are at their office. Find out how experienced your attorney is to make sure you have someone who is a seasoned Columbus, Ohio criminal defense lawyer.

Tip 5: Trust and Loyalty

The foundation of a functional attorney-client relationship is built with trust. The client needs to trust that the attorney has the client's best interest at heart and will fight for them no matter what. Trust means that the client will feel comfortable with confiding in the attorney so that the attorney has all the information needed to build as good a case as possible. The client would know that the attorney is loyal to them and will keep all the information the client gives confidential. Trust also means knowing that the attorney will communicate with the client openly about his professional legal opinion on the case and keep the client apprised of any developments in the case.

Tip 6: Go With Your Gut

After you have done your homework and met with your attorney, go with what feels right for you. Despite the circumstances you are in, you should feel positive about getting help from your Columbus criminal defense attorney. Consider it the first step in overcoming the situation you are presently in. The sooner you choose the attorney who is right for you, the sooner your attorney can get to work on resolving your case.

Attorney George Wolfe is a Columbus criminal defense attorney who has over 20 years of trial experience—including in criminal defense cases in Columbus, Delaware, and other surrounding Ohio communities. Contact Wolfe Legal Services today for a free, confidential consultation at (614) 263-5297 or fill out our online form.