United States Law Reporter

Southern California Criminal Defense Attorneys

How to find and hire the best Criminal Defense Attorney for your case.

March 2009

     When you or a loved one is faced with criminal charges you will most certainly need the assistance of a top-notch criminal defense attorney.  

     The attorney you choose can make all the difference in the outcome of your case and this is a decision that should not be made quickly. Here are a few critical thoughts to help you in making that decision.

The Internet Dilemma

     In this modern age many people use the internet to help them find a defense attorney.  However,  this potentially can yield a terrible result.  While the internet may provide information please remember that most attorney web sites are really just marketing tools designed to gt you to choose them as your attorney.  Many make exaggerated promises about their experience, contacts with the court and their proven track record.  

While a good web site may prompt you to call an attorney remember it is critical to make sure that the attorney you choose has at least the following credentials:

1.  Does he or she practice criminal law only?

2.  Is the Attorney a California State Bar Certified Criminal Law Specialist?

3.  Does the Attorney Have a minimum of 10 years of Courtroom experience?

4.  Has the Attorney handled all types of Criminal Law Cases?

5.  Does the Attorney make broad promises and claims seem to be to good to be true? 

6.  Does a Google/Internet Search provide independent stories about the attorney or just their own marketing web sites?

7.  Remember you are looking for a good Attorney not a good advertiser.

8.  Does the attorney regularly speak to other attorneys on practice area topics?

9.  Does the attorney offer a free consultation?

10.  Is the attorney you hire going to be the actual attorney that handles your case?   

We recommend you visit the California State Bar Board of Specialization 

to find a Criminal Law Specialist in your Area.  

In order to be identified as a "Certified Specialist" in California, an attorney must be certified either by The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization or an organization whose certification program has been accredited by The State Bar of California.

California attorneys certified as specialists must:

1.  Pass a written examination in their specialty     field.

2.  Demonstrate a high level of experience in the specialty field.

3.  Fulfill ongoing education requirements.

4.  Be favorably evaluated by other attorneys and judges familiar with their work.

5.  Have presented at least 10 Felony trials to a Jury.

6.  Maintain the highest levels of on going training in Criminal Law.

We recommend you visit the California State Bar Board of Specialization to find a Criminal Law Specialist in your Area.

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