Hiring a solicitor can be a really tough decision to make. If you have been charged with a serious crime, like sexual assault, manslaughter or murder, you will want to ensure that you have access to the best Sydney criminal lawyers. Regardless of how serious the crime may be, you want the best legal defence you can afford in your corner. Indeed, there are many advantages of convening with a solicitor, even if it is just for legal advice. However, it is important to note that solicitors can provide a wide range of services and that there are certain things you need to be on the lookout for when employing legal representation. Let’s consider a few key things to remember.

 

Technical knowledge

Just because a solicitor has plenty of experience, doesn’t necessarily mean they are well-versed in the legal framework. In fact, our laws are subject to change quite frequently, so you probably want one of the Sydney criminal lawyers who is up to date with all the available information. Take for example the legal definition of marriage, which recently changed to include same-sex couples as being the same as heterosexual marriage. Laws relating to crime are similarly always changing, particularly in regards to federal government proposals as to whether those convicted of terrorism should be stripped of their Australian citizenship.

 

Experience

How much experience a solicitor has is also a good indicator of their quality, however, it is also important to be wary of so-called experience statistics. What is important is that the Sydney criminal lawyers involved in your case can back up their experience by demonstrating their technical nous either to you or in the courtroom. In reality, if you are impressed by their presence and credentials, consider their services. At the end of the day, experience is one thing, but putting that into practice is another.

 

Appreciate honesty

You’ll hear a lot of outlandish statements and promises from the many Sydney criminal lawyers. That’s because they are all competing with one another for work. There is a lot of competition in the legal profession and with the number of law graduates hitting the market skyrocketing, it seems there may be no end in sight.

Put simply, you should be looking for Sydney criminal lawyers who will be honest with you. The last thing you need is to be fed vague promises, building unrealistic optimism. You have been charged with a crime and the entire process needs to be treated with respect. You want a solicitor who can provide constructive, unbiased advice. You need a solicitor who will be impartial and realistic. Their job is to present your case and fight for the best legal outcome given the crime you have been charged with.

 

Value their courtroom presence

A courtroom can be a daunting place. If you have been charged with a rather serious or heinous crime, you’ll likely be seeing judgmental eyes all over the courtroom. You need a group of Sydney criminal lawyers who can help you through this stressful and emotional period. They will be able to present your side of the case without putting you under any unnecessary duress. Unless you have studied the legal framework in the past, you will likely have no idea what is going on in the courtroom. Thankfully, with the guidance of your Sydney criminal lawyers, you will never be out of the loop or confused about what is going on. They will be aware of all the relevant legal documentation and rhetoric, so you can rest assured that they will keep you informed and that your case will be as strong as it can possibly be.