Navigating the legal world and the pressures of facing a criminal charge are not easy for anyone to go through. You want to work with a team that can provide guidance and insight every step of the way. The lawyer should be knowledgeable and experienced in the type of law you seek counsel for.
At Russo, Pelletier, & Sullivan P.A, we have a dedicated practice made up of specialized professionals within criminal defense. But don’t just take our word for it. Ask these five important questions of the attorney you are considering, and be confident that you are hiring the best attorney to defend your case.
#1: How Often Do You Handle Cases Like Mine?
In Florida, any licensed lawyer can represent any type of case. However, it is common practice for attorneys to specialize in a particular area of law. It is crucial to ensure that an attorney’s area of expertise aligns with the type of defense you need.
You wouldn’t go see a podiatrist to have open heart surgery. Similarly, attorneys who regularly handle cases like yours, in the County where yours occurred, are going to be better-suited to build your defense and navigate you through the process confidently than a lawyer who occasionally handles criminal defense matters in Pinellas County. Working with a lawyer dedicated to criminal defense can only increase your chances of a favorable outcome and help you understand every detail of your case. For example, the attorneys at Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan, P.A. specialize in criminal defense, including sex crimes defense attorneys in Clearwater. If you have been charged with a sex crime such as sexual assault, solicitation, or possession of child pornography, our attorneys are specially equipped to handle your case.
#2: How Much Court Experience Do You Have, and How Often Are You In Court?
Each courtroom in Pinellas County has a different judge, with different prosecutors, and each has its own philosophy. A lawyer who regularly appears in the Pinellas County courts and acts as opposing counsel with Pinellas prosecutors will have greater insight into the tendencies of the judge and strategy of the prosecution than an out-of-town lawyer.
Additionally, ensure that the attorney who is handling the details of your case will actually be the person showing up to represent you in court. At Russo, Pelletier, & Sullivan P.A, you have the confidence your lawyer will show up every time, because we never use coverage attorneys. If you are working with one of our sex crimes attorneys in Clearwater, the same attorney you start the journey with will be there through the end to defend you against the charges you’re facing.
#3: What Locations Do You Practice In, and Do You Have Relationships With The Prosecutors And Judges I Might Encounter?
Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan P.A has operated in Pinellas County since the 1980s and has longstanding, professional relationships with local judges and prosecutors. Our relationships and connections with the local legal community helps us to represent you more effectively.
As accomplished attorneys in Clearwater, we understand what local judges look for in a case, and by using this knowledge can work to build a defense that fights to defend your right to freedom. By having standing relationships with Pinellas County prosecutors, we can negotiate more effectively on your behalf.
#4: Can You Create a Plan Of Attack To Get The Best Results In My Case?
This question is important to ask to understand what your potential defense attorney’s strategy will be. An experienced sex crimes defense attorney in Clearwater should be able to outline clear defense strategies pertaining directly to your specific case.
There is no one-size-fits-all strategy. Every case is unique, and every client should be treated with that in mind. That is why when assessing who should represent you, they should be able to look at your case specifically and form a plan of attack.
While no lawyer can guarantee results, you should feel confident your attorney is fighting for the most favorable outcome possible, every step of the way.
#5: Why Should I Hire An Attorney When I Can Just Represent Myself?
It may be tempting to represent yourself, but by doing so, you are setting yourself up for the worst outcome. A defense attorney does more than talk in the courtroom. They have extensive knowledge and experience in the legal field that is invaluable to winning a case.
Working with experienced attorneys at Russo, Pelletier, & Sullivan P.A means your case is handled professionally and with the attention to detail and process it deserves. You wouldn’t perform surgery on yourself, so why would you represent yourself in court?
To quote Abraham Lincoln (who was an attorney before he became our 16th president), “He who represents himself has a fool for a client.” Let the experts handle your case.
If you are in need of a law firm that you can trust, complete our contact request form or give us a call today at (727) 578-0303.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.