If you find yourself on the wrong end of an arrest warrant in Austin, Texas, the first thing you will want to do is hire a criminal defense lawyer. Criminal defense in Texas is no laughing matter, since Texas is the state with the highest number of convictions that include the death penalty. You need to hire the best you can find, particularly if you are looking at potential jail time. While you will certainly be offered the services of a court appointed defense attorney, you should be aware that while they do the best job they can for you, they are also overwhelmed, overworked and underpaid. If you can afford to hire a private attorney, it will serve your best interests to do so. When you choose a defense attorney, there are several qualities you should definitely look for: experience, knowledge and Texas State Board Certification in Criminal Law.
- If you have been charged with a Crime, Submit your Case for a Free Review from a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Austin. This website is for informational purposes only, and nothing stated here should be taken as legal advice.
Experience
Many excellent criminal defense attorneys come to private practice after years of working as prosecuting attorneys for the other side – the side that is usually accusing you. It is definitely helpful to have an attorney working for you who knows the ropes and is familiar with how the Travis County District Attorney’s office work. A good solid criminal defense attorney who has experience working in both the State and the Federal criminal courts has an excellent background and will serve you well when it comes to planning your defense strategy and knowing how to tear apart the prosecution’s case against you.
Knowledge
Knowledge of the criminal justice system in Texas and specifically how the Prosecutor’s office in Travis County applies criminal law is important in a criminal defense attorney. While almost any good defense attorney who is licensed to practice law in Texas can probably help you in your criminal defense, you want someone who is skilled in understanding precisely what strategy the prosecutor in your case will likely use when you are on trail. This kind of knowledge is invaluable and will definitely work to your benefit.
Board Certification
One of the unique qualities to look for in a criminal defense attorney is Texas State Board Certification in Criminal Law. This is a certification that is offered by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and requires a set number of years practicing in an area of specialization, in this case criminal law, and passing of a written board exam. Attorneys who have been Board Certified in criminal law have demonstrated their knowledge and experience in Texas criminal law through their years of experience practicing criminal law and through passing the examination.
