Criminal defence lawyers are essential members of the criminal justice system. Without their advocacy, many defendants would not receive a fair trial. A suspect or criminal defendant looking for a criminal defence attorney in Toronto, Canada, should look for certain qualities.
Not all attorneys have the characteristics necessary to handle serious criminal cases, like experience and expertise. You want to find lawyers with the right skills, reputation, experience, and a winning track record.
If you or your loved one faces arrest or criminal charges, you need a capable lawyer to help build solid defences, have the charges dropped, or the penalties reduced. So when searching for top criminal lawyers in Toronto, the must-have characteristics include:
Experience in the Specific Charges You Face
A one-size-fits-all lawyer does not exist. Therefore, you must seek one who has experience litigating the specific charges you face. Since criminal law is expansive, you do not want to retain a jack-of-all-trades attorney.
Major practice areas include Assault and Battery, Domestic Violence, Driving Crimes, Drug Crimes, Sex Crimes, and theft crimes. These practice areas are further split into many other crimes. Therefore, you must hire an attorney specialized and experienced in your particular case type. Ask the lawyer how many cases similar to yours they have handled and what the outcomes were.
In-Depth Knowledge of Canadian Law
Top criminal lawyers are well-versed in the latest legislation and courtroom procedure changes. Besides having a thorough knowledge of the law, your defence lawyer should navigate you through the legal process and provide the best possible outcome for your case. They must be able to maneuver the complex Canadian laws surrounding the criminal procedure, evidence, and sentencing.
Maintains a Good Reputation and Rapport with Past Clients
Creme de la creme Toronto attorneys have a good reputation among their peers, the Crown, and the judiciary. This is essential as it will give you an idea of how your case will be handled. You can ask around for referrals or look up reviews online. A good criminal lawyer upholds a solid reputation in the legal community. If an attorney has a bad reputation, they are not well-respected by the people who matter.
A Winning Track Record
When looking for a criminal lawyer, you want someone who has a proven track record of winning your type of case. This doesn’t mean you should only look at lawyers who have never lost a case, but you should inquire about their success rates in the specific charges you face. Your ideal criminal lawyer must be confident in their abilities and will be able to provide you with a list of recent successes.
Compassionate and Dedicated
Criminal cases can be lengthy, drawn-out affairs. You want a dedicated lawyer for your case who will see it through to the end. Criminal defence lawyers must be relentless in their advocacy. They must be willing to spend long hours researching cases and preparing for trial. Reliable criminal lawyers are also compassionate and understand the stress you undergo. They will do everything to help you receive the best possible outcome.
They Must be Excellent Communicators
Criminal defence lawyers must be able to persuasively argue their clients’ cases in both written and oral form. They must also be able to build strong relationships with their clients and instill in them a sense of hope and confidence.
Affordable, Accommodating, and Devoid of Hidden Costs
Of course, you will also need to consider the cost of hiring a criminal lawyer. Choose a lawyer who is upfront about their fees and expenses. Furthermore, you want a lawyer willing to work within your budget. Many criminal lawyers offer flexible payment options, such as payment plans or a flat fee. Also, it would help if you asked about any additional costs/ hidden costs, such as expert witnesses or private investigators.
The Right Approach to Your Case – Aggressive or More Laid Back?
The approach your lawyer takes depends on the specific details of your case. In some cases, an aggressive approach is necessary to achieve a positive outcome. Aggressive criminal lawyers have an aggressive litigation style and are not afraid to take on the prosecutor head-on. They understand the law and can help you build the strongest possible defence.
In other cases, a more laid-back approach may be better suited. You should discuss what approach they think is best for your case with your lawyer.
Compatible and Welcoming
A good working relationship is essential when dealing with something as stressful as a criminal trial. It would be best if you were comfortable with the lawyer you choose. You should be able to communicate openly and honestly with them. Make sure you feel like they have your best interests at heart.
Trustworthy
Ultimately, you need to be able to trust your lawyer. This is someone who will be handling sensitive information about your case. You should feel confident that they will keep everything confidential and act in your best interests. Make sure you’re comfortable with your lawyer and feel like you can trust them implicitly.
