The best defense attorneys near me are more than capable of defending people accused of crimes in court. This role requires a lot of research, a sense of empathy, and patience.
If you’re wondering how to find the best defense attorneys, consider learning more about the role they play in court. Once you’ve done your research, it can become much easier to find a good criminal attorney in Los Angeles.
Roles and Responsibilities of Los Angeles Criminal Lawyers
In Los Angeles, there are many attorneys practicing criminal law. With so many options, it can be hard to know what to look for.
When employers hire a new staff member, they take the time to investigate candidates and assess their qualifications. If you need to hire a criminal defense lawyer, it’s a good idea to use the same approach.
An experienced criminal attorney will have intimate knowledge of the federal court system, and this will help you prepare for your trial.
Here are the most important roles and responsibilities of a criminal defense attorney:
- Gather and analyze the evidence
- Protect your legal rights
- Form a defense
- Interview witnesses
- Handle plea negotiations
How Much Do Criminal Lawyers Earn in Los Angeles?
Criminal lawyers in the Los Angeles area tend to earn around $90,000 a year, with a few outliers in terms of high and low earners, according to a report from Payscale. Some attorneys prefer to be on a retainer because it guarantees steady payments as they work.
Retainers are upfront legal fees that cover many hours of attorney fees, and they allow a lawyer to invest time in your case without
What to Know About Finding Criminal Attorneys in LA
Every case is different. Even cases in the same general area, like drug possession, will have different circumstances surrounding them. Because of this, you need a lawyer who creates unique defense strategies tailored to your needs.
Criminal attorneys handle a wide range of cases. Some of them have specialties, such as driving under the influence (DUI) defense or sexual offenses. Before you commit to a lawyer, feel free to ask them about their work.
Here are some questions to ask your potential lawyer:
- How many years of experience do you have in this area of law?
- Have you represented cases similar to mine?
- Do you have any training related to my case?
- What are your fees and what is the fee structure like?
- What do you think will be the outcome of my case?
What is Limited Scope Representation?
Limited scope representation is an option for people who cannot afford legal representation. In this situation, an attorney will handle some aspects of your case, but not others. This is a departure from the traditional criminal defense lawyer approach.
The attorney may handle paperwork, coach you on how to represent yourself in court, or handle complex parts of the legal process, like discovery and research. This approach is ideal for minor offenses.
In some situations, it may not be the best option. If your legal case is time-sensitive or has a lot at stake, such as personal injury cases, it’s best to hire a professional for all necessary services.
Qualities to Look for in a Good Criminal Attorney
When searching for a lawyer who fits your needs, look beyond the price tag and consider their values and skills. When legal professionals represent you, you should be able to trust them and know that they will handle your case according to your wishes.
The right lawyer will be knowledgeable about the legal issue you are facing—whether that’s personal injury claims, business law, or traffic offenses. Winning a criminal case is a long, complicated process that takes more than just a law school degree.
Here are some traits to look for.
Empathy and Integrity
The law firm you choose will be working closely with you to help you avoid a criminal conviction and other unwanted outcomes. It’s important to find someone you trust to help you navigate legal issues.
Good Communication Skills
A communicative lawyer will keep you in the loop as things develop. They’ll be able to answer your questions, and they’ll get in touch when they have news.
This can put your mind at ease and help you prepare throughout the case.
Good Research, Analytical, and Investigation Skills
When you are facing criminal charges, you’ll want someone who can use their research and analysis skills to create a strong narrative that exonerates you. Criminal defense lawyers will assess your story and also find other sources of information.
Good Legal Networks
Over time, lawyers can develop legal networks, including familiarity with state and federal courts. They may also be part of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) or another group.
Aggressiveness
In criminal cases, you need an aggressive and persuasive lawyer who will protect your rights. Criminal prosecution can be a difficult, uncomfortable process, so it’s important to have someone confident on your side.
Criminal Law Experience
In the legal field, experience is a major asset. A top-rated criminal defense lawyer will be familiar with common defenses and how they can benefit your case.
Finding a legal professional who can handle your case may take a bit of research, but it’s worth the effort.
We help clients from all walks of life navigate the criminal justice system. To set up a free consultation to discuss your legal options and learn more about how we can help, you may fill out our online form or contact us at 877-541-3566 at LibertyBell Law Group today!
Gina Tennen
Founder
At A Glance
- Expert legal strategist.
- Experienced in both prosecution and defense.
- Relentless fighter for her clients with results to prove it.
- Received the National Top 100 Trial Lawyers Award
- Featured in Time Magazine’s “Leaders of Criminal Defense” in the 100 Most Influential People edition.
Executive Managing Attorney Gina Tennen is a renowned leading advocate of personal liberties. Her meticulous trial preparation and exceptional ability to pursue every possible defense has earned her the admiration of clients and respect from prosecutors, judges, and other criminal attorneys all over the nation.
Lawyer Tennen began her career as a Senior Law Clerk for one of the toughest District Attorney’s offices in the country where she gained remarkable experience in juvenile crimes, elder abuse, parole hearings, child abuse, sex and other serious crimes. Her experience at the District Attorney’s Office armed her knowledge and case strategy in exploiting the other side’s weaknesses for the client’s advantage and building a rock solid defense. Criminal attorney Tennen’s experience on both sides and brilliant maneuvering throughout is evidenced in her winning track record. In fact, even before earning her law degree, she was instrumental in getting excellent results on several criminal cases outshining her peers.
A consummate strategist and top criminal attorney, lawyer Tennen works tirelessly on many high profile criminal cases. She is known as a relentless fighter who never gives up on any case. Whether the case is hers or handled by another criminal defense attorney from LibertyBell Law Group, no matter how small the case may seem she asserts that every client deserves the right to the best legal representation.
It is her deep belief and what she has built her entire career and lifelong dedication to that there is always hope for every client and every avenue should be pursued regardless of the time and energy it takes. For criminal attorney, Gina Tennen, devoting the finest criminal defense for clients is a habit and talent that you must apply and do all the time.
You demand the best defense. Take hold of your life and speak to our defense attorneys by calling 855-LAW-PRO1 (855-529-7761) now.
Founder Gina Tennen and all the sex offender attorneys at LibertyBell Law Group uphold that when the bell rings, it rings for life and liberty for all.
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