Dealing with the legal system can be stressful, exhausting, expensive, and worrisome. Having a good lawyer on your side is essential to a good outcome. A probation violation lawyer can help you understand every aspect of your case, allowing you to make decisions with confidence. There are some very good reasons to hire a professional to deal with a potential probation violation. Lawyers are not created equal—so it’s important to know what you’re looking for.
- Experience – An experienced lawyer brings more than academic knowledge to the table. They bring a background in arguing in many different kinds of cases. This helps your lawyer be ready for anything.
- Zeal – Sure, you can use a court-appointed attorney for your defense. However, public defenders have huge case loads—meaning they are unable to devote a lot of time to every case. Hiring your own probation violation lawyer means that they are there to zealously defend YOU.
- Networking – Lawyers local to your area bring their relationships with prosecutors, judges, and probation officers. Engaging in negotiations with lawyers and judges with radically different styles of communication can be tenuous for someone who is unfamiliar with them.
- Specificity – An attorney who specializes in criminal law will be up to date on legislation and trends that can affect your probation. They will also know that careful review of the evidence is paramount. The legal system may be new to you, but not to a probation violation lawyer.
- Trial Experience – You may not think you need someone with trial experience for a probation violation. However, keep in mind that a trial lawyer is well-versed in negotiation, bargaining, and thinking quickly on their feet. This may be exactly what you need to get the results you seek.
- Advocating: Your probation violation lawyer should be your advocate. You should feel comfortable speaking with them and feel that they represent you well.
Research criminal attorneys in your area to find one you’re comfortable with. Keeping in mind the above points can help ensure you find someone best suited for you and your case. Good luck!