Characteristics of Top Criminal Defense Attorneys

​Many clients who are charged with a crime for the first time feel scared and confused. They feel a loss of control and are vulnerable. If you’ve been charged and don’t know what to do, we’ve put together this list to give you back some power. You don’t need to work with the first attorney you see. You should be able to choose a criminal defense attorney based on characteristics that are important to you.
Here are some characteristics of top criminal defense attorneys.

Criminal Law Specialty
Specializing in criminal law is a great indicator of a top defense attorney. A criminal defense lawyer knows the ins and outs of criminal law and can work to defend clients who have been accused of crimes, including getting charges reduced or dropped altogether.

"Marc Hart got some serious charges dropped from felony to misdemeanor home invasion and felony assault with deadly weapon, all dropped. Former Prosecutor and knows his stuff. Also treats you like family. And works very hard for you. Also what I liked is you can get in touch with him at anytime on his personal phone. He just eases your mind and has your back. If you want a great criminal lawyer you wont go wrong."
- Jason D.

​Responsive
No one wants to wait all day for their criminal defense lawyer to call them back. The attorney you choose should always have time to meet with you in their office. They should also be willing to talk on the phone, whether it's at night or during their off hours. Some top attorneys provide their cell phone numbers so they can be reached whenever you have a question.

Knows Local Courts
Your defense attorney should know the prosecutors and local law enforcement. This knowledge allows them to be aware of personal biases against you or your case. Every court has its unique way of allowing or disallowing cases to be filed or prosecuted, enforcing or ignoring court rules, etc. So, it is important to have an attorney who knows these finer points to best guide you through your area's court system.

Gives References
While reading online reviews is helpful, it’s always best to see reference letters or thank you notes that previous clients have sent to your prospective attorney. These will give you an idea of the quality of their work and the relationship the attorney built with clients.

Communication
Effective communication is a prerequisite for a criminal defense attorney. Keeping you informed about what’s happening with your case and responding to your questions will help keep you at ease. Additionally, they must be able to effectively speak with the judge and opposing counsel in a way that will benefit your case.

"Marc Hart was very professional! He communicated and thoroughly explained to us the whole legal process of our case. I would highly recommend his legal service to all my friends and family."
- Vignesh K.

​Clear Fee Structure
One of the first issues you’ll iron out with your criminal defense attorney is how much it will cost to defend your case. Top-rated attorneys will clearly define their fee structure and make sure you understand the investment you’re making in your defense.

Enthusiastic
A top-notch criminal defense attorney will be attentive and interested at your first and all following meetings. They will have a level of enthusiasm that lets you know they love their work and will put forth their energy and vast knowledge to defend you. 

Confidence
The best criminal defense attorney is one who is confident. These lawyers know what they're doing, and they trust in their abilities. They are respectful and do not let intimidation stop them from doing what they know is right. They push forward to achieve the best result possible. 

Caring and Understanding
The prospect of criminal charges is terrifying and distressing. Having a lawyer who cares about your well-being and can relate to your predicament will be a comfort. A top criminal defense attorney will express warmth and concern for you and your family. ​

"Marc has excellent knowledge of the law. Made us feel like members of his family. Always accessible, attentive, and supportive. Highly recommend his services. A miracle worker for our family!"
​- Kubali R.

​Analytical
A criminal defense attorney's ability to analyze data and distill it into persuasive arguments is crucial. There will be times when their analysis of a situation will impact their strategy, and their ability to get it right will impact the outcome of your case.

Good Speaker
One indicator of self-assurance and attitude to the matter is the degree to which they express themselves verbally. A lawyer who lacks confidence in public speaking may be cave and seek a settlement rather than go to trial. A criminal defense attorney who is uncomfortable in front of an audience may not be the best choice to defend you.

Negotiation Skills
It is not uncommon for criminal matters to be settled during a meeting with the prosecutor. Having a criminal defense attorney with strong negotiating skills will help to keep you out of court and possibly reduce your sentence.

Listens
Your attorney should listen to your side of the story and be willing to hear what you have to say about your case. They should not be judgmental about your situation, even if it seems like you are guilty of the crime you are alleged to have committed. A good criminal defense attorney will ensure you understand every detail of your case and advise you on the best way to proceed with your defense.

"Marc Hart has been the most compassionate lawyer. He has worked so hard on my case and I am very grateful 🙏 He does not judge you for your situation and does the best to get a fair outcome. We are still fighting my case and no matter the outcome from the judge he could not have done a better job. He literally is saving my life. Thank you Marc! Josie you are awesome too, great, friendly, and hard working. Wouldn't know what I would have done without you guys!"
- Ambria B.

Aggressive
An aggressive and assertive criminal defense attorney will greatly benefit you because they will not let the other side run over you and your rights. Aggressive legal representation is more likely to provide a favorable outcome.

Committed
Criminal cases can be complex and difficult and have far-reaching consequences. The cases have highs and lows, which might make you feel disheartened. A committed criminal defense attorney is essential during tough times. He or she will be there for you to guide, console and even celebrate with you.

High Integrity
Your attorney must put you and your defense first at all times. Outside influences or personal interests are not to play a part in your defense. He or she will do what he/she says they'll do and treat all who are involved in your case with honesty and fairness.

"Marc definitely puts me at ease in my situation. He is very informative and honest.  He answers (you) and has different alternatives for reaching him in a timely manner. Marc has kept his word and has been a pleasure to do business with. Out of the many lawyers I’ve needed I rank Marc truly among the best. 5 stars for sure."
- Joshua H.

Research/Investigation Skills
You can't afford to have your criminal defense lawyer represent you in court without spending significant time and effort on research and preparation. A generic defense strategy will not help you win your case. Your lawyer should be interested in researching precedents in similar instances and digging further into your case to uncover any details that may have been missed and provide evidence of your innocence or mitigate the severity of the accusation against you.

Approachable 
While you won’t expect your criminal defense attorney to be your best friend, you do want someone who is friendly and easy to talk to. That way, when it comes time to discuss your case and how it’s going, you can expect that they will willingly answer all of your questions.

Courageous 
Last but not least is courage. It can be tempting to just take a plea deal when you're facing serious criminal charges. But that's not always the best option. Your attorney must be brave enough to stand up to a judge who may be abusing power and prosecuting attorneys who are too aggressive with penalties or their interpretation of the law. Sometimes an attorney needs to be firm with their own clients to help the client not stand in the way of his or her own defense.

"Marc has never let me down, ever. He is going to tell you exactly what you need to hear, whether you want to hear it or not, and he's going to get the job done! I once called another attorney for a second opinion, and was told, (if Marc can't get it done, it can't be done.)"
- Philip S.

​As you search for a criminal defense attorney who best fits you and your situation, use this list of characteristics to help guide your decision. You will be partnering with your lawyer for a long time, and it is important to find the right person with the right skills, experience, and personality. 

If you need an aggressive, experienced, committed criminal defense attorney, call The Law Offices of Marc E. Hart at 248-545-5290. 
Mr. Hart offers a free consultation and is available 24/7 to respond in urgent circumstances.