Depending on the type of criminal charge you have, the more specific you should be with your choice of attorney. If, for example, you have a DWI charge, look for a attorney with lots of experience with DWI defense, do not look for someone that has experience in defending general criminal defense or traffic court cases.

Many criminal cases will not actually go to trial, rather they will be plea bargained or negotiated outside of the court. Even if the attorney has indicated to you he or she is confident it will not go to trail, be sure to ask about their courtroom experience and how many cases they have actually won in court.

Always talk to at least three or four different attorneys or firms. Make sure that you are talking directly to the attorney, not to a legal assistant or front desk person regarding your case. Be sure to keep records of what answers you received from each firm or attorney.