If you're looking for a juvenile defense attorney for yourself or for your child, making the right choice can seem overwhelming. There are many sources, like legal directories on the Internet, that can lead you to a variety of attorneys from which to choose. Once you've compiled a list, you may want to interview several, by phone or in person, to find just the right one for you or your child. After all, you have a lot at stake. The following questions can help you make an informed decision when choosing a juvenile defense attorney.
What experience do you have representing juveniles?
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What experience do you have with the particular charges involved in this case?
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How long have you been practicing? _____ years
How much of that time has been devoted to juvenile law? _____ years
Is your practice currently devoted exclusively to juvenile law, or do you work in other areas? If so, what areas?
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What outcomes have you achieved for your clients in cases similar to this one?
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What are the possible outcomes in this case?
Clean Record _____ Dropped Charges _____ Community Service _____
Restitution _____Residential Treatment _____ Probation _____ Other _____
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What strategy do you recommend in this case?
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Will you be doing the work on this case, or will you delegate it to a less experienced attorney or a paralegal or law clerk?
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What are your fees?
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How much do you think this case will cost?
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How will you keep me informed of developments in the case?
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How long will it take to resolve this case? _____________________________
Have you ever had your license suspended? If so, please explain.
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Have you been the subject of disciplinary proceedings? If so, please explain.
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Have former clients filed complaints against you? If so, please explain.
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Other Questions/Notes
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In addition, ask yourself the following questions:
Is the location of the office convenient to my home and/or office? Yes _____ No _____
Are appointments available at convenient times? Yes _____ No _____
Does this attorney’s personality work well with mine/my child’s? Yes _____ No _____
Do I feel intimidated by this attorney? Yes _____ No _____
Am I comfortable asking questions? Yes _____ No _____
Do I feel confident that this attorney will do a good job? Yes _____ No _____
For additional information and resources, please click on the links below.
Now that you have a helpful checklist to help in choosing a juvenile defense lawyer, it's time to put it to use. After all, there are many benefits to an attorney early in the process, including the ability to influence the evidence in the record and possibly enter into an agreement with the prosecution. Get a head start on your case by finding a local criminal defense attorney with juvenile court experience.
