Finding the Perfect Criminal Trial Lawyer

2. Introduction Introduction Finding the perfect criminal trial lawyer does not have to be a difficult process. Despite seemingly complicated criminal trial law, finding a criminal lawyer is now easier than ever.

3. Table of Table of Contents Contents  Who are Criminal Trial Lawyers?  Types of Criminal Law  Types of Criminal Offences  Criminal Lawyer Areas of Focus  Types of Criminal Law Defenses  Choosing the Right Criminal Trial Lawyer  Cost of Criminal Trial Lawyers

4. Who are Criminal Trial Lawyers? Criminal trial lawyers are also known as criminal defense lawyers and public defenders. They work with individuals or organizations that have been accused of a crime. Criminal trial lawyers first complete a bachelor’s degree before completing law school. They must then pass the bar exam in the state in which they wish to practice.

5. Types of Criminal Law In the United States, criminal trail law can be divided into two categories, namely misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanor - A misdemeanor is considered less serious than a felony offence. Misdemeanors often result in fines, loss of privileges, or jail sentences of less than a year. Examples of misdemeanors include disorderly conduct, reckless driving, vandalism, public intoxication, vandalism, petty theft, trespassing, and simple assault. Felony – A felony is a severe type of offence. It is often punishable by prison sentences of more than a year, and in some states, the death penalty. Examples of felonies include manslaughter, murder, arson, battery, burglary, fraud, tax evasion, forgery, blackmail, kidnapping, treason, and obstruction of justice. At times, criminal law also includes a third, albeit minor, category. This category covers infractions, violations, regulatory offences, and minor/petty offences.

6. Types of Criminal Offences Criminal offences can be divided into five main categories. These include personal crimes, property crimes, violent crimes, inchoate crimes, financial crimes, and statutory crimes. Violent Crimes - Violent crimes include arson, assault and battery, robbery, stalking, and weapons-related crimes. Inchoate Crimes – Inchoate crimes are those in which an individual takes a step toward committing another crime, including conspiracy or incitement. Other examples of inchoate crimes include criminal attempts and aiding and abetting.

7. Financial Crimes – Financial crimes include fraud, electronic crime, money laundering, terrorist financing, bribery and corruption, market abuse, insider dealing, and information security. Property Crimes – Property crimes include vandalism, criminal damage to property, defacement of statues and other works of art, trespassing, burglary, and breaking and entering.

8. Criminal Lawyer Areas of Focus Criminal lawyers focus on a variety of criminal law areas, including property crime, violent crime, drug and alcohol related cases, and defence for white collar crimes. Many criminal trial lawyers focus on more than one area of the law.

9. Types of Criminal Law Defenses Criminal lawyers defend individuals who commit a crime for various reasons, such as necessity, coercion, or simple mistake.

10. Choosing the Right Criminal Trial Lawyer Asking friends, neighbors’, and coworkers is one way to finding the perfect criminal trial lawyer. However, due to the sensitive nature of the topic, individuals may feel more comfortable searching for a lawyer from the comfort and privacy of their own home. Various review websites, as well as the professional websites of criminal lawyers, are available through an easy Google search. Many criminal lawyers are also part of professional organizations. Many of these organizations provide referral services and online directories. If possible, it is recommended to book a face-to-face meeting with the lawyer to determine if one feels comfortable with the individual.

11. Ensure that the criminal trial lawyer is licensed in one’s particular state. Ensure that the criminal trial lawyer specializes in the type of law that one needs. For example, certain criminal lawyers focus on property crime, while others focus on violent crimes. It is also recommended to prepare a list of questions to ask a criminal lawyer beforehand. Ask about fee and payment schedules. In addition, do not hesitate to ask about plea bargains and negotiations.

12. Cost of Criminal Trial Lawyers The cost of criminal trial lawyers varies and often depends on type of case, the complexity of a case, as well as the reputation and geographical location of the lawyer. Many charge an hourly rate. At times, it may be difficult to predict how many hours a case will cost. Hourly rates often range from $100 to $400 USD, depending on type of case and level of experience. Criminal lawyers in larger cities charge approximately $200 to $400 USD. However, some high-end attorneys can charge up to $1,000 USD. Flat fees are much more predictable. This fee may increase if the case becomes too complex. For example, an uncontested divorce may cost $700 USD and $1,000 USD for a prenuptial agreement. A simple will costs about $300 USD, while a more complex estate is approximately $1,200 USD.

13. Misdemeanor cases often cost several thousand USD, while felony cases begin at approximately $5,000 USD. This cost is much higher for severe felonies, such as murder and sexual assault. Many attorneys offer free estimates. Various criminal lawyers are available in all major US cities. Do not hesitate to contact one today.

14. Contact local attorney: Kent Hickam - https://www.kenthickam.com/attorney/kent- hickam/ Phone 541-928-9304 Fax 541-924-6810 Email - https://www.kenthickam.com/contact-us/