Car Accident Insurance Claims in Maryland

 

If you’ve been charged with a crime, a misdemeanor, felony or traffic offense, then you’re probably going to need the assistance of a criminal defense lawyer. Criminal defense lawyers are attorneys that you hire to defend you against criminal charges. A criminal defense lawyer typically works by himself or within a larger law firm. 

 

The fee to hire a criminal defense lawyer depends on a number of factors. Some of those factors may include the seriousness of the crime, the jurisdiction in which you’re charged, the past experience of the lawyer and the complexity of your criminal charges and the time and effort it will take to defend you.

 

 

In most jurisdictions, there are two types of criminal offenses; misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors, which are less serious and carry less jail time. And felonies which are more serious and typically the penalties are stiffer and the charges are more complex. For felony charges, criminal defense lawyer typically will charge more then he or she would charge for a misdemeanor.

 

It is not uncommon for an individual facing felony charges to also face one or more misdemeanor charges in their case. A lawyer may charge anywhere from $2,500 up to $25,000 depending on the severity of the charges for a felony. The higher-end are they more expensive the lawyer will charge is typically for the more complicated or more serious criminal offenses such as murder or rape. Because most of those serious offenses require a trial before a judge or jury, it will take the lawyer more time and effort to prepare and defend you.

 

 

Yes, most lawyers will offer some sort of payment plan for criminal charges. Unlike civil lawyers, criminal lawyers will typically charge a flat fee. A flat fee means the lawyer will quote the total cost for the entire representation of the case. This flat fee may include all motions and discovery as well as trial prep and actually trying the case before a judge or jury. Since most criminal prosecutions will take up to 6 months, lawyers will charge an initial fee to retain their services and then allow the client to pay the balance of the fee over a period of time. This is typically how lawyers offer payment plans in a flat fee criminal case.

 

 

As discussed above, the cost to hire criminal defense attorney will vary depending on the severity of the charges and the complexity of the case. Less serious misdemeanors and traffic cases may cost anywhere between $1,000 and $2,500. Whereas, more serious and complicated felony cases will cost between $2,500 and $25,000 to hire a criminal defense attorney.

 

 

How much does it cost to get an attorney? It all depends on what kind of lawyer you need. If you’re facing a criminal offense then you need to hire hey criminal defense attorney. If you have been charged with DUI or DWI, you may also hire criminal defense attorney, as criminal defense attorneys handle both criminal and traffic violations.

 

 

Since misdemeanor cases are typically less complicated, then attorney cost to help with a misdemeanor would be less then a felony charge.

 

 

The average cost of a criminal trial will vary depending on the length of the trial and the complexity of the charges. Another factor that may dictate the cost to hire a criminal defense attorney is the experience at reputation of the lawyer. It is certainly possible to find a good criminal defense attorney that is only a few years out of law school.

 

However, an experienced criminal defense attorney with many years practicing law and dozens if not hundreds of trials will typically be more expensive in the end. However, as the old adage goes, “you get what you pay for.” That means a more experienced lawyer will typically provide a better product and a better result in your case.

 

You may pay a premium to have the best criminal defense attorney represent you. Another factor to consider is if a criminal defense attorney has experience as a prosecutor. Most criminal defense attorneys were once prosecutors and gain the experience and knowledge in that position of how the criminal justice system work. It is invaluable to hire a criminal defense lawyer that has been a prosecutor because they have exceptional an extraordinary knowledge of what the other side is thinking and how they will handle criminal cases.

 

 

The best way to find a criminal defense attorney Is to start on the internet. By searching for the best criminal defense attorney you will be provided a list to start your search. It is advisable that you meet with two or three attorneys before making a decision and settling on the one you want to defend you. During your initial consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, he or she will quote the total fee so that you can determine if you wish to hire that lawyer. If you have questions about criminal charges in Maryland, contact the law offices of Randolph rice today to speak with a criminal defense lawyer and for a price quote for your case.