Criminal Defense

Legal Guides

• How much will it cost to hire a criminal defense attorney? Should I simply represent myself?

  Written by attorney Brian Gurwitz. STAFF PICK

  

  Should I represent myself?. Many people (particularly those who intend to plead guilty) are reluctant to spend money hiring an attorney since it would cost nothing simply to walk into court at... more

• Bail in Criminal Cases

  Written by attorney Michael Ross. STAFF PICK

  

  What is bail and how is it set?. The right to reasonable bail in a criminal case is a constitutional right that everyone in this country enjoys. When a person is arrested, the police use a "Bail... more

• Understanding Legal Fees

  Written by attorney Jennifer Kannegieter. STAFF PICK

  

  Fee Structures . The most common fee structures are hourly, flat (or fixed) fee, and contingency. The hourly structure is the “default” method. You pay $X per hour for the lawyer’s time. You are... more

• Lawyers' Contingent Fees and Contingent Fee Agreements

  Written by attorney James Chalat.

  

  What is a Contingent fee?. A “Contingent fee” is a method of paying a lawyer a percentage of whatever you collect in a case. A contingent fee agreement may be the only practical means by which an... more

• Controlling Legal Fees

  Written by attorney Bruce Beal.

  

  Controlling Legal Fees: First, Do I Need a Lawyer?. Legal fees are among the highest unbudgeted expenses that people incur during their lives. Learning how to control legal fees may result in... more

• How Reimbursement for Victims of Crimes Affects Restitution Costs in Criminal Cases

  Written by attorney Paul Wallin. STAFF PICK

  

  If you are convicted of a crime against another person, you have the right to have a hearing to determine how much restitution is owed to the victim. At that hearing, there needs to be a showing in... more