Our criminal defense lawyers at White Law PLLC have a wide range of specialties and can assist clients who are facing charges that could result in jail time. Even though our firm has a long history of success to back it up, your present lawyer might not have a similar track record. Learn about the choices you have to switch lawyers during a criminal trial.
People facing criminal consequences frequently ask what their best course of action should be or what they can do to minimize the likelihood of going to jail. You will need a qualified, trustworthy defense attorney if you want to position yourself in the legal system.
The legal process may be frightening. You need someone to represent you, argue your case, and provide regular updates. If you feel like your Okemos criminal defense lawyer is allowing you to fall through the cracks, it may be time to change lawyers.
How Critical Is It to Have a Defense Lawyer?
You have the right and obligation to defend yourself if you are accused of a crime. A criminal defense attorney can guide you through the legal system and help you understand it. A defense attorney will help ensure that your rights are upheld and safeguarded throughout the legal process and prepare and present your legal defense.
Any interview with the police, a juror, or a prosecutor conducted independently can be extremely frightful and downright threatening. Fortunately, criminal defense attorneys deal with these situations frequently. They are able to create a legal defense that will be most helpful to you in your fight for freedom because they frequently engage with police, prosecutors, and judges.
Defense attorneys can represent you in court by handling jury selection, arranging a plea agreement, and testifying in your favor at trial or during sentencing. It is advisable to retain a defense attorney to avoid making any mistakes that could end up costing you money or your freedom later on.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
What Are Some Signs that I Need to Switch Lawyers?
Knowing when to change attorneys is essential to getting the best result for your case. Here are some clues that it might be time to look into finding a new attorney:
Lack of Communication
If your attorney regularly ignores your calls or emails, fails to inform you of developments in your case, or fails to address your concerns, this could be a symptom of bad communication. An effective attorney-client relationship depends on effective communication.
Lack of Knowledge or Experience
Changing attorneys may be a good idea if you believe your current one lacks the knowledge or experience essential to handling cases like yours. For instance, if you have an attorney who doesn’t advise you of things like evoking your Miranda warning. You need a lawyer with experience and a solid reputation.
Unethical Conduct
It’s a severe red flag if your lawyer exhibits unethical conduct, such as violating client confidentiality, participating in conflicts of interest, or neglecting to act in your best interests. The relationship between an attorney and a client is built on trust and moral behavior.
Inadequate Representation
If you feel that your attorney is not properly arguing your case, for example, by failing to adequately prepare, missing deadlines, or failing to make a convincing argument, this could be a sign that their representation is insufficient.
Transparency Issues Regarding Fees
Your attorney should be open and honest about their rates, how they bill you, and any other expenses your case might incur. It can be important to look for other representation if you have worries about obscenely high or unclear fees.
Conflict of Interest
It’s crucial to address the situation immediately and consider getting new legal representation if you learn that your attorney has a conflict of interest that could compromise their ability to represent you effectively or impartially.
Breakdown of Trust
In the attorney-client relationship, trust is a crucial component. Maintaining a fruitful working relationship could be challenging if you have lost faith in your lawyer for any of the aforementioned reasons or additional worries.
Consider speaking with your existing lawyer about your issues before deciding to switch lawyers during your criminal trial. Any problems can be addressed and perhaps resolved if there is open communication. However, seeking new legal representation would be in your best interest if your worries continue or cannot be addressed.
How Much Will It Cost Me to Switch Lawyers?
The price of changing attorneys during your criminal trial might vary depending on a number of variables, such as the stage of your case, the fees and costs you have already paid to your existing attorney, and the policies of both your current and potential attorneys. Here are some potential expenses to think about while changing attorneys:
- Unpaid fees: If you owe your existing attorney any unpaid legal fees, you must settle them before the two of you may no longer work together. Review your fee arrangement carefully, and talk to your attorney about any unpaid fees.
A new retainer fee may be needed when hiring a new attorney in order for them to begin working on your case. Depending on the intricacy of your case and the particular agreements you have with the new attorney, this charge may change.
- Case study and transition: Your new attorney will need to study your case files, become familiar with the specifics, and be aware of the development to date. This can require more work and money, which might be reflected in their fees.
- Additional expenses: Depending on where your case is in the process and whether any transitional procedures are required, there can be extra expenses associated with copying or transferring documents, filing paperwork with the court, or hiring an expert witness.
A criminal defendant shouldn’t ever feel guilty about changing attorneys. First, you should understand that your freedom is on the line and that strong advocacy is crucial. Never forget that your attorney is working for you. You require a lawyer who will fight for you and prioritize your requirements.
We know how to get our clients the results they need in the toughest legal arenas.
What Process Is There for Switching Attorneys During a Criminal Trial?
To help you easily transition to a new attorney while your criminal trial is taking place, start by doing extensive research to identify a new lawyer that specializes in your particular legal issue and has a solid track record. To discuss your case, find out more about potential candidates’ qualifications and rates, and make an informed choice, set up first consultations with them.
Once you’ve decided on a new lawyer, it’s time to inform your present lawyer that you’ve decided to end your engagement. Send written notification of this choice, along with a request for a receipt confirmation. To ensure you have a complete collection of records, ask your existing attorney for your case files. This will be crucial for your new lawyer to evaluate and become acquainted with the specifics of your case.
Next, agree to the conditions of representation in a new retainer agreement with the lawyer you’ve chosen. They will then officially notify all parties concerned of the change in counsel by filing a Substitution of Counsel with the court. Be open and honest about your expectations and worries while providing your new attorney with all pertinent information and documentation.
At White Law PLLC, our criminal defense attorneys are dedicated to defending the rights of our clients. We understand how stressful and confusing the legal system can be, and we are here to provide comprehensive legal advice to make sure you get the best possible outcome for your case.
We’re Experienced. We Care.
We Exceed Client Expectations.
