A domestic assault charge is a serious matter for more than one reason. Being convicted not only carries heavy criminal consequences, but it can be hugely damaging to your personal life. This is why hiring an experienced domestic assault lawyer can be so important.
Hiring the right lawyer can make a significant difference to the outcome of your case. Due to this, careful consideration is needed before you choose which lawyer will represent you. Here are the top tips for hiring a domestic assault lawyer.
Make a Quick Decision
Following on from this tip, we’ll explain all the green flags that you look for. However, it’s also important that you make a decision quickly. That’s because you’ll need a lawyer in place before your bail hearing. This usually happens within 24 hours of an arrest.
A lawyer can have a significant influence on whether bail is granted and what conditions will be imposed. This can impact what freedoms you’ll have until your trial. So while it’s important to make the right decision, it’s not one you can dwell on too much.
Related Article: https://www.agpllp.ca/bail-conditions-for-domestic-assault-cases-in-canada/
Look for Specialized Experience
Criminal law covers a huge range of crimes. This means that some lawyers won’t have expertise in these types of cases. Due to this, you need to look for lawyers who have experience in dealing with domestic assault.
You should ask any potential lawyer about their experience and the specific challenges you may face. A respected lawyer will be more than willing to have a conversation with you about their expertise. If you sense a lawyer doesn’t have the right experience, it may be best to look elsewhere.
If you want to check the credentials of your lawyer, they will be listed on both the websites of the Law Society of Ontario and the Ottawa Criminal Lawyers’ Association. As always, it’s also a wise move to check out reviews and testimonials from independent sources.
Related Article: https://www.agpllp.ca/how-to-choose-a-criminal-defence-lawyer-in-ottawa/
Seek a Lawyer Who Will Listen
Lawyers may be experts in criminal law, but every case is different. That means you need to find a lawyer who will listen to you carefully and without judgment. You shouldn’t feel rushed and instead be reassured that the specifics of your case are going to be taken into account.
They are unlikely to go through great detail in an initial consultation, but should be able to give you a general overview of your case. If you get the sense they aren’t actively listening to your story, it’s unlikely they’ll be able to give you the best possible defence when it counts.
Once you decide to go ahead, a good lawyer will review the police report and disclosure thoroughly. They will also ask detailed questions about what happened, discuss your version of events, and enquire about any information that may be relevant.
They will also advise you about the next steps, including bail if this stage hasn’t already been passed. Remember, this is your future on the line. If you are uneasy about any aspect of your lawyer’s communication, don’t be afraid to ask questions or even walk away.
Assess Communication Style
Along with how they listen, you also need a lawyer who will communicate with you. This includes explaining things clearly, answering your questions patiently, and being responsive. They should also be able to explain legal terms and processes in a manner you understand.
It’s also wise to beware of false promises. No lawyer can guarantee a result, and the strength of your case should be realistically discussed. Any lawyer saying that you’ll win is not one you can rely on. An experienced domestic assault lawyer will never make such promises, as even the simplest-looking cases can be unpredictable.
Instead, your lawyer should explain legal strategies with you and be honest about the strengths and weaknesses of the case. You want to have a lawyer who is both calm and composed. Confidence comes from experience and clarity, not false promises.
A blasé attitude to your case can lead to a lawyer not considering secondary defences or mitigating factors. This can quickly lead to the downfall of a case. Additionally, better alternatives may be overlooked, such as plea bargains.
This communication also extends to legal fees. Legal representation can be costly. Some lawyers can shy away from this fact or be elusive. Your chosen lawyer should be open and honest about what they charge and how their charging structure works, such as being hourly or charging a flat fee.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a domestic assault lawyer requires you to consider several key points. You want a lawyer to not only defend your case in court but also guide you through the complicated legal process. This needs to be done with professionalism, confidence, and communication.
It’s a decision that needs to be made quickly, but also one that still needs careful consideration. If you would like to speak with a lawyer today, please contact AGP LLP. We’ll be happy to offer you a consultation and see how we can help with your domestic assault case.
