April 18, 2023 | Criminal Defense
When you’re facing criminal charges, you need a lawyer in your corner who you can trust. During the initial chaos after your arrest, you may have rushed to hire a lawyer. As time goes on and you get further in your case, you may realize your lawyer isn’t as good as you’d initially hoped.
There are a few red flags that may indicate you’ve hired a bad lawyer. Read on to discover the telltale signs you’ve hired a bad lawyer and how to avoid it in the future.
They Communicate Badly
When you hire a lawyer, you need to make sure they are communicating with you about your case. Your entire future may hang on the outcome of your case, and your lawyer should take that seriously. You should never feel like you have to beg for updates on your case.
If your lawyer often misses phone calls, is slow in returning your messages, and doesn’t keep you up to date on the progress of your case, it could be a sign you got a bad apple. Your lawyer should also never talk down to you or refuse to explain details about your case. And if your lawyer tried to push you into making a decision you’re uncomfortable with, it’s time to find a new attorney.
They’re Misleading About Billing
Another area your doctor should be transparent about is the billing. You should always know exactly what you owe, what you’re paying for, and when it’s due. Your lawyer should never spring surprise fees on you, especially without explaining what they’re for.
If your lawyer isn’t being open and honest about billing, you may have hired a bad lawyer.
They Make A Lot of Big Promises
When you hire a lawyer, you want them to instill confidence that they can get a good outcome in your case. After all, your entire future could hinge on your lawyer being able to mount an effective defense for you. That being said, you don’t want to hire a lawyer who makes a lot of big promises they can’t keep.
Be suspicious of lawyers who promise you the moon without solid evidence that they can deliver. You should avoid hiring a lawyer who promises they can get you off all your charges with zero fines or court action. If they do make these promises, ask them exactly how they plan to make that happen.
They’re Unprofessional
When you and your lawyer are appearing in court, their demeanor is going to have a huge influence on the jury. Juries are more likely to trust a lawyer who presents themselves professionally. If your lawyer doesn’t have a professional bearing, you’re less likely to get the verdict you need in your case.
Your lawyer should dress, speak, and carry themselves professionally. This means good personal hygiene, appropriate dress, and clean language. If your lawyer shows up in sloppy clothing with body odor and foul language, you need to get a different advocate in your case.
They’re Disrespectful
When you work with a lawyer, you should never feel like they’re being disrespectful of you. Lawyers do have to undergo a lot of training and education, but they should never use it as a club against you. A bad lawyer will be condescending and may even refuse to explain details in your case.
Your lawyer should be respectful of you at all times. They should clearly explain all points of your case and collaborate with you to come up with a plan that fits your needs. If you feel disrespected, head out the door and find a lawyer who treats you with dignity.
They’re Not Empathetic
In addition to being respectful of you, your lawyer should also be empathetic to your situation. Facing criminal charges can be devastating, especially if you’re being falsely accused. If your lawyer treats you like a criminal when they’re working on your case, they’re going to have a hard time convincing a jury you’re not one.
Your lawyer should have empathy in your case and should show that they care about you as a person, not just a paycheck. If they can’t be bothered to show you basic compassion, you can show them the door.
How to Find a Reliable Lawyer
There are a few things you can look for when hiring a lawyer to make sure you don’t wind up with a bad one. First of all, take advantage of the free consultation to see what the lawyer is like. If they seem unprofessional, condescending, or uncommunicative, move on to another lawyer.
It’s also a good idea to bring a list of questions with you to the initial consultation. See how your attorney answers them and if they communicate with you in a way that instills confidence and trust. You can also ask them how they’ll keep you apprised of progress on your case and how the billing works.
Get the Representation You Deserve
Choosing a lawyer is hard, and sometimes you may wind up with a bad egg. If your lawyer communicates badly (especially about billing), makes big promises they can’t keep, or presents an unprofessional appearance, you need to find another attorney. Other red flags can include being disrespectful or not displaying empathy in your case.
If you’re facing criminal charges, the lawyers at Suhre & Associates can give you the defense you need. Our team includes both a former police officer and a former prosecutor, so we know what it takes to win. Schedule a free consultation with us today and start getting the representation you can trust.
Contact the Louisville Criminal Defense Attorneys at Suhre & Associates, LLC For Help Today
For more information, contact the criminal defense attorneys at Suhre & Associates, LLC; give us a call today at (502) 371-7000 or visit us at our Louisville law office.
Suhre & Associates, LLC
214 S Clay St A
Louisville, KY 40202
(502) 371-7000