How to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Charged with a crime? The lawyer you hire matters. Combs Waterkotte, recognized for top-tier criminal defense in Missouri and Southern Illinois, created this guide to help you find the right attorney. Learn what to look for, key questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.

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If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, choosing the right defense lawyer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The outcome of your case can impact your freedom, reputation, and future. With so much at stake, you need an attorney who has the experience, skill, and dedication to fight for you.

This free ebook from Combs Waterkotte walks you through every step of the selection process. If you'd prefer to listen to the audiobook version, you can do so here:

0. Introduction: Choosing the Right Criminal Defense Lawyer

Finding the right criminal defense lawyer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make after being charged with a crime. The attorney y …

1. Start Looking for a Lawyer Immediately

If you’ve just been arrested or informed that you’re under investigation for a crime, your first instinct may be to lay low and avoid takin …

2. Assess Your Needs: What Kind of Case Are You Facing?

Criminal defense isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a nuanced field that demands expertise tailored precisely to your unique situat …

3. Experience and Specialization Matter

When you're accused of a crime, the stakes couldn’t be higher—your freedom, reputation, and future are all on the line. Would you trust …

4. Local Knowledge Is Key

When it comes to choosing the right criminal defense lawyer, one often-overlooked factor can make all the difference—local knowledge. A d …

5. Communication and Accessibility

When you're putting your freedom and future in another person's hands, the least they can do is answer your phone calls. However, not all crimi …

6. Reputation and Reviews

When your future hangs in the balance, choosing the right criminal defense lawyer can make all the difference. One of the most telling indicato …

7. Comfort Level and Trust

Trust is the foundation of any attorney-client relationship. You don't want to find yourself sitting across from someone tasked with defending …

8. Fee Structure: Understand the Costs

Hiring a criminal defense lawyer is an investment in your future. The financial cost of legal representation might seem overwhelming initially, …

9. Initial Consultations: What to Ask

No one wants to have to hire a criminal defense lawyer. You’re likely facing one of the most stressful situations in your life, and trying to …

10. Red Flags to Avoid

Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer is probably the most critical decision you’ll make after your arrest. While the right attorney c …

11. Making the Final Decision

By now, you’ve learned how to evaluate a criminal defense lawyer from every angle to find the one that can achieve the best possible resoluti …