A criminal defense attorney is a highly skilled individual. They have spent years studying and continue to do so. Furthermore, they have spent countless hours in the courtroom, fighting for the rights of their clients. Daniel DeKoter understands how important it is that you have the right defense team fighting on your side, as this is what will help you get that “not guilty” verdict, the plea bargain, or the full acquittal. DeKoter believes that lawyers should not just fight against the charges of their clients, but they should also be given a new chance at life, rather than having a criminal charge follow them forever.
According to DeKoter, good defense lawyers can easily collect information pertaining to their case, but interpret it in the right way as well. They should understand how to speak to witnesses and to legal and law enforcement professionals. They should also understand the types of evidence presented to them. Lastly, they should know those on the side of the prosecution and understand their style. Naturally, they should also have a full understanding of all the local laws relating to the case they are defending.
Daniel DeKoter on Finding a Defense Attorney
According to DeKoter, those looking for a defense attorney should:
- Do a lot of research. They should review the cases defended by the different attorneys and what the outcomes of these cases have been. Information like this is a matter for the public record, which means the county clerk should be able to make it available to you.
- Know the history of prospective attorneys. This means that they have experience in the particular case that you are charged with, such as homicide, assault, domestic abuse, or drunk driving. These are all specific areas of the law and it is best to work with someone who specializes in those areas in particular, rather than someone who is more generic.
- Use the free consultation that all good attorneys offer. Not only is that an opportunity to have your case reviewed and to see what type of defense line is possible for you, it is also a chance to get to know the attorney and to find out whether you can trust and like them. After all, they will be responsible for much of the rest of your life.
- Ask for references and look up reviews. Lawyers are usually listed on websites such as Avvo, where you can see how other people have been helped by the team before. You do have to take reviews with a pinch of salt, not in the least because you never know whether they are true or not, but they can be very beneficial in terms of deciding whether a lawyer is any good or not.
By following the guidelines above, Daniel DeKoter believes that you should be able to find a defense lawyer that is right for your particular needs. Doing this will instantly lift a huge weight off your shoulders.