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How to Choose a Cook County Criminal Defense Attorney

Written by: Michael J. Helfand

Reputation Level 16

Posted over 2 years ago. Applies to Illinois, 0 helpful votes, 0 comments

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Experience

At the very least, you need an attorney who has experience in criminal defense. It's highly recommended that you find someone who focuses their practice on criminal defense. This means that they do mostly criminal defense cases, not just a few here and there. If you can find an attorney with significant experience in defending people against the exact charges you are facing, that's even better.

Location

Within Cook County, there are many courthouses where criminal cases are heard. You want an attorney with experience in the courthouse to which your case is assigned. The more the attorney appears before the judges there, the better off you will be in most cases. If your case is at the Daley Center downtown, find an attorney who goes there often. They are more likely to know the judges and the prosecutors and have local reputation. This doesn't guarantee a good result, but it can give you an advantage.

Fees

Many criminal defense attorneys charge a flat fee to represent you during your case. Ask about this fee, and whether there is an additional cost if your case ends up going to trial. Ask if there are any extra fees and costs that you can expect at any time during your case. There is no formula for figuring out how much it should cost you, but make sure you know all the details. If it doesn't seem right, call several attorneys in the same area and ask about their fees. This will help you decide if the fee is fair. And always get a fee agreement in writing at the beginning of the case.

Consultation

Before hiring a criminal defense attorney in Cook County, ask for an initial consultation. At this meeting, ask a lot of questions. They will be asking you about your case, but make sure you don't forget to ask them about their strategy, experience, office policies, etc. Interview more than one attorney if you can. Don't hire an attorney who you feel isn't interested in your case or doesn't understand your situation. If it just doesn't feel right, keep looking.

Additional Resources

Don't know where to start? If you're facing any type of criminal charge in Cook County, give us a call. You can talk to an attorney about your case for free. If you need a referral, we will recommend someone we know.

Cook County criminal districts

Criminal defense attorneys in Chicago, Illinois