Criminal Lawyer Fairfax VA: Important Case Queries To Ask

If you are charged with a crime and you already hired a criminal lawyer, there’s still one step you need to take.

It would help you a lot if you also prepare a list of questions about your case base on your goals just as how you prepare in assessing your lawyer. And since it is a crucial event in your life, you might overlook some questions you need to ask your lawyer before going to court.

You should ask your lawyer the following important queries:

Are there any sentencing alternatives available in my case?

An alternative punishment may refer to home detention, community service, probation, therapy, or work programs.

If you don’t want to serve time in prison in the whole duration of your sentence, you could be granted one of these sentencing alternatives. Yet, sentencing alternatives are not available to all criminal cases, so ask your lawyer beforehand if yours has it. But maybe sometimes you don’t really need to ask because your lawyer will initially tell you so.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?

From the initial consultation, your lawyer should already have in-depth knowledge of your case.Therefore, he/she could determine the advantages and disadvantages of your case -- how to overcome those weaknesses and how to use those strengths for a more favorable outcome.

What are my legal options?

The legal options your lawyer may recommend include a guilty plea, plea agreement, or trial.

Before you decide to plead guilty or agree with what is written in the disclosure package, discuss it first with your lawyer. He/She can give you legal advice and the possible sentence you are likely to receive if you plead guilty.

Your lawyer may also recommend a plea agreement of which you will assent to plead guilty in exchange for an agreement by the prosecutor -- could be to drop one or more charges against you, reduce a charge, or recommend a sentence to the judge more favorable for you.

With a trial, after you are charged with a crime, the case directly proceeds to trial. This is the most complex legal option because you have to go through a lot of phases -- specifically six main phases which include jury selection, opening statements, witness testimony and cross-examination, closing arguments, jury instruction, jury deliberation and verdict.

What potential problems do you anticipate to occur with my case?

Working with almost the same cases for years did really good for experienced criminal lawyers that they can already perceive what would happen with your case if you do this and that. Much more, they can foresee as well, some possible complications that may occur during the legal proceedings.

Regardless what type of crime you are charged with, such queries could surely help you come up with wiser choices. If there are more questions you would like to ask your criminal lawyer, take every opportunity to ask about it. Moreover, it is also advisable to discuss your goals with him/her to properly work in your favor.

Need a reliable legal advice? Visit Wise & Donahue Law Firm at 10476 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, Virginia 22030 or you may call 703-934-6377.

Wise & Donahue Law Firm

10476 Armstrong Street Fairfax, Virginia 22030

703-934-6377

www.wisedonahue.com

 

What Does It Take to Be a Criminal Lawyer?

Successful lawyers possess certain skills, and the financial rewards for those with the right personal qualities can be substantial. If you find yourself in trouble with the law and in need of an attorney, keep your eyes peeled for a certain personality type. Choosing the right lawyer will result in the best possible outcome for your case.

Experience

A criminal lawyer with experience is very important especially when your life is at stake. Experience with respect to the selection of the jury, cross examination of the witness, developing defense strategy and ratio of the successful trial are a significant input to look for an experience of a criminal lawyer.

Reputation

The reputation of lawyer that you will be hiring for your trial is important. A reputed lawyer is one who has handled high profile cases and generally the lawyer who has a higher ratio of wins as compared to other lawyers, enjoys a high reputation. Good reputation counts a lot in highlighting the credentials of the lawyer and has a lot of experience of handling different phases of the criminal trial.

Busy Work Hours

The tight working schedule of the criminal lawyer fairfax va also signifies his level of expertise. Lawyers who are always available to you are the one who has not been able to attract a large number of clients and may not be the one you are looking for.

Go Local

Since good criminal lower cost a lot it is better to find a reputable one in your locality. This will help you to cut some of the traveling expenses that you may incur if your criminal lawyer is located outside your normal reach. This becomes more important if the period of trial extends longer than the expected.

Someone Who Shows Courage

Since your life will be at stake a courageous criminal lawyer fairfax va is very important. The criminal lawyer should have the ability to handle tough situations such as cross examination of a witness presented in the court, alternate course of action for defense strategy. A criminal lawyer who is courageous will have the ability to counter attack the arguments and threats posed by the prosecution.

As a final remark, your criminal lawyer must maintain exhaustive records of the cases handled and get an industry insight into each clients.That is crucial to building business and relationship in the corporate world. Despite a lot of socializing, he or she knows the limits  of when not to give away their methods and practices. 

 Wise & Donahue Law Firm
703-934-6377
10476 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, Virginia 22033
www.wisedonahue.com

Phases of Criminal Litigation

Facing criminal charges and want do defend yourself from a criminal allegation? Then you need to know the phases of criminal proceedings.

Criminal litigation can be complex in nature depending on your case; it is a serious one, expect a huge turn of events. But don’t stress yourself too much because you have civil rights in order to defend yourself. In fact, a specific clause from the due process states, “may not be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law.”

The legal procedure used by any criminal justice system varies because every criminal case has a unique aspect. Less to say, here are the basic stages or phases when undergoing criminal attorney:

Phase 1: Arrest

The initial phase of the criminal proceeding is to arrest the suspect which is done by a police officer. Yet, before the police can arrest, they should: (1) observe the person committing a crime; (2) have probable cause to present, and believe that a crime has been committed by that person; or (3) make the arrest under the authority of a valid arrest warrant issued by a judge or grand jury.

Right after the arrest, the police should complete the booking process, and then place the suspect in custody. If the suspect committed a minor offense, the policy may issue a citation instructing the suspect to appear in court at a mandated date.

Phase 2: Bail

If the law enforcement officials already compiled a written report detailing the alleged offense, the prosecution then determines if the crime really happens and if the suspect as the one who committed it. With this, the type of charge is identified as well. Thereafter, a bail or charge is granted, if appropriate, in exchange for a release.

Release on bail depends on the suspect’s promise to appear at all scheduled court proceedings. A suspect could be released on his own recognizance; of which he/she need not post bail, but still provide a written oath to appear at all scheduled court appearances. Bail may be granted immediately after booking or at a later bail review hearing.

Phase 3: Arraignment

During an arraignment, the judge reads the charges filed against the defendant. Thereafter, the defendant can either plead “guilty,” “not guilty” or “no contest” to the charges stated. This is also the phase where the court determines the conditions of the defendant’s release. The arraignment process is the defendant’s first appearance.

Phase 4: Pretrial Proceedings

Pretrial proceedings, is the phase where the prosecution and the defendant file motions, discovery requests and witness summonses through counsel. Pretrial is done before the actual criminal trial because many criminal cases never actually proceed to formal trial due to a plea agreement agreed by the defense and prosecution.

Phase 5: Trial

If the case proceeds to the actual trial, the judge or the jury will either find the defendant guilty or not guilty. This, after listening to opening and closing statements, examination and cross-examination of witnesses and jury instructions. If the final decision is not unanimous, the judge may call for a mistrial, and the case will either be dismissed or a new jury will be appointed. However, if a judge or jury finds the defendant guilty, he/she will be sentenced.

Phase 6: Sentencing

This phase is where the court determines the suitable punishment for the convicted defendant. To be able to assess the suitable sentence, the court considers a some specific factors, such as the nature and severity of the crime, the defendant’s criminal history, the defendant’s personal circumstances and the degree of remorse felt by the defendant.

Phase 7: Appeal

A defendant convicted of a crime may ask the high court to review his or her case. If the court finds an error in the case or in the sentence imposed, the court may reverse the conviction or look into the case again.

When you are charged of a crime, especially if it is severe, immediately consult a criminal lawyer fairfax va.

Wise & Donahue Law Firm

703-934-6377

10476 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, Virginia 22033

www.wisedonahue.com

How Can You Find a Reliable Criminal Attorney?

So, you have been charged with a crime. This can be challenging if you do not know any criminal attorneys. In addition, you do not have a lot of time to hire an attorney. Choosing a criminal attorney is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. If you opt for someone who spends most of their time focusing on other practice areas and has little experience in criminal law, you could be settling for an unsatisfactory outcome to your case. However, if you choose an experienced law office, you’ll give yourself a fighting chance.

If you want the best of the best, it is important to choose carefully and dig deep into your pocketbook – your freedom could depend on your choice. Spend as much as your money will allow. Learn to dig deep. Ask your colleagues, family and friends for any recommendations that they can provide. First-hand experience is always preferable to reviews online.

The good criminal defense attorney will try his level best to make the punishment allotted to the guilty client is befitting the crime done by the client. It is always better to get some testimonials on a lawyer before hiring the criminal defense attorney. Your friends and family are the best people to approach to find out information on the criminal defense attorney. The good criminal defense attorney is one who stands by the client till the end of the trial, to make sure that the client gets as favorable an outcome as possible. Learn to read testimonials. Do prior clients have good things to say about a particular firm you are considering? Read reviews and testimonials to determine if you like the level of service they provide.

Does the attorney make you feel comfortable the moment you enter the office? Did you feel rushed when you first spoke over the phone? Take note of how a particular lawyer makes you feel from the start, and trust your instincts if you find yourself torn between multiple firms.

Probably the most important thing that your criminal attorney brings to the table is an understanding that there’s no substitute for spending the time that you need to spend with your client to get to know them, to get to know the particulars of their case, to get to know, what issues we’re facing, to get to know the facts at a very granular level, and getting to know the law the latest developments in the law on the case. He or she will bring much else that his or her clients appreciate from the moment you have begun your conversation to the end of the representation.

Wise & Donahue Law Firm
10476 Armstrong Street Fairfax, Virginia 22030
703-934-6377
www.wisedonahue.com

Criminal Attorney Fairfax VA: Mistakes When Facing Charges

Being charged with criminal acts is quite nerve wracking. You surely don’t want to ruin your future, reputation, and the safety of your family. To avoid worsening the situation, you should immediately hire a criminal attorney.

A criminal attorney will carefully guide you of the things you should and should not do during the whole legal process. Moreover, you can refrain from committing mistakes when getting arrested and when questioned during the trial. Remember that a little mistake can cause a big unpleasant event where you might find guilty or will face worse penalties.

Take notice of these common mistakes, you should avoid when facing criminal charges:

1. Talks too much when being arrested.

Don’t say anything when you are being arrested, instead, exercise your civil right to remain silent. You might think that people around you will assume that you are guilty if you keep your mouth shut. Well, that is certainly not a wise thought. It is more practical to not let go any statement because the police can use it against you even if it’s positive in nature.

2. Too confident that your innocence will set you free.

Let us say that you didn’t really commit a crime - that you are totally innocent, don’t ever let your guard down. Stay mindful with your actions and statements when questioned by the police because they will still perform their job of finding evidence against you.

3. Being aggressive.

Don’t make decisions or acts according to your current situation because it will not do you any good. Instead, keep your calm and just focus on how to clear up your name and in order to achieve this - you should have a criminal lawyer with you. Don’t talk back or be rude with the police officers or even try to flee and ignore summons from authorities because they can use it against you.

4. Not trusting your hired lawyer.

Since you chose to have a criminal lawyer to work with, trust him/her. Don’t be so confident that you can go through it all alone. Treat your lawyer as your partner where you should work together, listen to each other then compromise for a more effective and wise decision regarding your case. Trust in them because it is their job to help you.

5. Hiring a criminal attorney who charge too much and too cheap.

If you want to hire a less expensive lawyer because you want to save money, then don’t. Why? Because it’ll only get you in trouble, you can’t be sure that a certain lawyer will provide a service more than what you paid for. On the other hand, it is a grave mistake as well if your hire a very expensive lawyer. So make sure to do a research on how much a criminal lawyer usually costs in your area.

You can prevent a criminal charge from destroying your life. Sit down and do a consultation with a criminal attorney fairfax va or just dial to contact one.

Hire the most reliable and trustworthy criminal attorneys in Fairfax, VA.

Wise & Donahue Law Firm

703-934-6377

10476 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, Virginia 22033

www.wisedonahue.com

Criminal Lawyer Fairfax VA: What Are You Paying For

What are you really paying for when hiring a criminal lawyer fairfax va? What specific legal fees does it include?

Generally, you know that you’re paying the professional service provided by a lawyer and that’s all. Usually, a good lawyer should explain and break down all legal fees, you will be paying for before the start of the legal process. But to give you an initial knowledge, here are some fees you’ll probably encounter during the process.

Types of fee arrangements used by lawyers:

1. Initial Consultation Fee

Some law firms who offer free consultation to potential clients. But for those who charge consultation fees, they either offer you an hourly or fixed fee for your first meeting. This serves as a payment for analyzing and giving advice regarding your criminal case.

2. Retainer Fee

An advance fee deposit is the most common type of retainer fee, it is like a down payment because you will pay it up front. Thereafter, the lawyer will deduct his/her arranged hourly fees and costs, so this deposit does not pay for the entire case expenses. A retainer may also mean that your lawyer is on-call to handle legal problems that may occur over a period of time.

3. Flat Fee

Also referred to as ‘set fee’ because a lawyer will charge you a total fee. This often applies if your criminal case is not a complex one. Since it is set, no matter how much time your lawyer will spend working on your case, the fee will not change at all. When things get worse and your case became complicated, this is the time to talk and ask your lawyer if the fee will change or not.

4. Hourly Fee

An hourly fee is arranged depending on three factors; namely on the hourly rate set by a certain city or town, type of cases a lawyer worked on, and the lawyer’s length of experience.

A good criminal lawyer will give you an estimated hour of when the case will end with an estimated total cost beforehand. However, unexpected events may occur along the process which will prolong his.her service, so it’s better to ask your lawyer from time to time about the charges. If you are lucky enough, some lawyers may choose to reduce his/her hourly late considering your financial status.

5. Referral Fee

This fee applies when a lawyer refers you to another lawyer and will ask a share of the total fee you pay for the case. However, regulations and qualifications from the state or local bar association are to be met in order to approve a referral fee. Primarily, the amount charged should be reasonable and you agreed to it.

Make sure that you are paying for the right person and for the right service. Find a criminal lawyer who is fully committed to execute his professional obligation and has high work ethics.

Looking for credible and experienced criminal lawyers?

Wise & Donahue Law Firm

703-934-6377

10476 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, Virginia 22033

www.wisedonahue.com

Assess A Good Criminal Attorney By Experience

Facing a criminal charge or know someone who is accused of a criminal act? Then this is not something you can settle alone.

Don’t even think twice about hiring an attorney who specializes in criminal law. You might not see the effect immediately, but in the long run, you’ll realize you made the right choice of hiring one. This is because their expertise and experience in the legal world will help you deal with the legal process cleanly and smoothly preventing future complications.

Most people ask first the experience of a criminal attorney. Here are some points on how to properly assess him/her based on experience, specifically.

1. The length of practicing law

You can identify an amateur or a veteran attorney through this. Two years is still very short and a shaky foundation, yet five to ten years in the field of law is enough to gain wide knowledge of how the court works as well as the ins and outs. There’s even a saying, “Experience is the best teacher”, actual ones in that case.

2. Majority of cases handled

Now that you know how long a criminal attorney if practicing law, you still need to ask about what are the most common cases he/she encountered. With this, you can determine if an attorney matches well the specific nature of your criminal case and if he/she will effectively handle yours. You can even ask an additional question relating to it such as, “How many cases have you represented in the court similar to mine?”

3. Common clients work with

You may think that this kind of point is not necessary or not important at all. Yet, for your information, this is as significant as the other aforementioned points. Why? Simply because some attorneys mostly handled corporate cases which is not really ideal if he/she will handle an individual case like yours. Two cases are far more different in terms of court regulations and state laws.

4. Kind of approach when representing a case

Attorneys have different ways in dealing with a case because they are holding different philosophies. If you are not a kind of aggressive person then an attorney who is involved with arguments all the time is a NO NO for you. Assess the experience of an attorney on how he/she approach cases in the past, so that you can determine if you’ll be comfortable working with him/her.

Experience always counts, so ask any questions you like into dig deeper to an attorney’s experience. It would be your ticket to find a good one who is fit for you and your legal needs and most importantly, the appropriate skill and knowledge you need to go through with your criminal case.

Find an experienced attorney and at the same a good match for you. The one you are confident working with and who listens well to your requests. Visit Wise & Donahue Law Firm at 10476 Armstrong Street, Fairfax Virginia.

Wise & Donahue Law Firm
10476 Armstrong Street Fairfax, Virginia 22030
703-934-6377
www.wisedonahue.com

The Reasons You Need a Criminal Attorney

You are in a tight situation — a very serious one. You have been arrested, gone before the court, spoken with your criminal attorney. Condolences on the fact of your pending criminal case. If you are in custody, you are entitled to a court-appointed lawyer or public defender, no matter how much money you make. As you now know, an arrest is just the start of a long, complicated process. If you were arrested and taken directly into custody, it probably felt like you were plucked out of the life you thought you were going to lead.)  You had your clothing replaced with an ill-fitting jumpsuit with orange colors that almost hide the stains.  

A Criminal Attorney Understands the Law and Legal Procedures Better than You

Let’s be honest here. You could spend a few years trying to understand the section of the law that applies to your case, as well as sub-sections and any changes over the years. When you’re fighting any kind of legal case, there is a mountain of paperwork, proper legal procedures, court documents, deadlines and other stuff that can be very time-consuming and stressful to deal with on your own. An attorney, on the other hand, has invested those years already and keeps abreast with changes and modifications in the law too. Use their training to your benefit, since their education has prepared them for this battle better than you. Attorneys are well-versed with these, so they know what kind of documents you need to bring on a certain day, how to file a plea bargain correctly and much more, saving you the time and trouble.

A Criminal Attorney Will Communicate with Other Involved Parties

If another party is involved in your case, there is a great chance that you will not want to communicate with them. They can use any of your words against you and it is not in your best interest. A criminal attorney will be able to do the talking for you. A criminal attorney will be able to talk to witnesses and find the necessary evidence to help your case. Witnesses might not be open to talking about your case right away, but the attorney will be able to make them feel more secure.

A Criminal Attorney Will Be Honest to the Courts

A criminal attorney, like all legal counsels, is an officer of the court and owes a duty of frankness to judges and juries. He or she may not knowingly make representations to courts that are untruthful. He or she is obligated to be as honest as possible when communicating with courts. He or she cannot support clients who commit perjury. Criminal attorneys must take reasonable steps to remedy known perjury by clients, which may include lawfully breaking attorney-client privilege to report it.

Your criminal attorney can also discuss the pros and cons of pleading guilty, especially when a plea bargain may be on the table. He or she can also assist with the standard steps of a criminal trial, from jury selection to providing opening statements to questioning witnesses. And if your trial does not go in your favor, criminal defense attorneys can assist you with the appeals process. If you have further questions about what a criminal attorney can do for you, schedule a consultation with one.

Wise & Donahue Law Firm
10476 Armstrong Street Fairfax, Virginia 22030
703-934-6377
www.wisedonahue.com

What Makes an Ideal Criminal Attorney?

Criminal law is an intricate blend of state and federal statutes. Each state defines its own set of laws and punishments for state crimes. Due to the complexity of the criminal justice process, the average person is often unable to understanding the full breadth of the law or how to navigating the system on their own.

A Criminal Attorney Needs to Possess Virtue

If a criminal attorney is not caring about their client or the outcome of the case; they will not fight as hard for you. You will want to look into the guilty versus not guilty ratio for the attorney prior to hiring them. A criminal attorney, as with all lawyers, must have a high level of integrity. He must be honest with his client, keeping him informed of the progress of his case and the likely outcome of the proceedings.

A Criminal Attorney Must Have Research Skills

He must be able to conduct research -- not only legal research to find precedents and other cases with a bearing on his, but also research into the alleged crime committed by his client and circumstances that the police may have overlooked.

A Criminal Attorney Must Be Empathetic

A defense attorney that understands and can relate to the police is important as well. Knowing what the police endure and how difficult it is to get an accurate statement is always a plus. Almost as if he is putting himself or herself in the shoes of the client.

A Criminal Attorney Must Be Knowledgeable

Knowledge of the law and the ever-changing realm of it are crucial. Having a sharp mind and the ability to make quick decisions is a great characteristic. You want an attorney on hand that can make a split-second decision; especially in the courtroom in front of a judge. Having knowledge of the intricacies of the law is vital to his performance. So is his knowledge of the mannerisms and personalities of the judges who preside over his cases and the prosecutors who oppose him.

A Criminal Attorney Must Be a Good Communicator

To obtain the most effective goal of your legal battle, there should be open communication between the client and their attorney. Good communication should always be in the top five when it comes to legal representation. Making certain any criminal attorney you are interested in hiring is not only a great public speaker but also a professional when it comes to writing briefs and other pertinent documents.

Conclusion

As much as you need the criminal attorney to be honest with you, you also need to be totally honest with the him or her. Don’t be afraid to honestly answer questions asked by the attorney regarding the situation and circumstances leading up to and then after the arrest.  What you tell the lawyer is protected under attorney-client privilege, which means it can’t be used against you later in the trial. Lastly but certainly not least; you want to make sure that a criminal attorney has an excellent courtroom demeanor. Perseverance and the determination to win your case should be the most important thing on their mind.

Wise & Donahue Law Firm10476 Armstrong Street Fairfax, Virginia 22030
703-934-6377
www.wisedonahue.com

Criminal Attorney Fairfax VA:What Can You Expect

Facing a criminal charge is never a simple case regardless if it’s minor or major. It is then necessary to hire a criminal lawyer because they are the authorized person to do so, as required in the legal system.

You can expect more help from a criminal lawyer whom you’ve chosen to represent your case. He/She should point out the distinctive element of your case since each has differences - maybe in the argument or circumstance.

Numerous expectations also means a lot of tasks for your lawyer. So, what can you expect from your criminal lawyer during the whole legal process?

1. You should expect that your lawyer will find and hire an investigator to seek witnesses in your defense by questioning and research evidences to prove the credibility of the testimonies.

2. He/She should pursue a negotiation with the prosecutor to come up with a plea bargain for a great possibility of reducing the potential sentence and other charges.

3. If in case you are judged guilty, your lawyer should work through a good sentencing program that would save you from undertaking back the hassles of criminal justice system.

4. The concern of your lawyer also covers your personal concerns regarding the case apart from the legality of it. Your lawyer is of great help as well during rising up of emotions and temper that go along with criminal trials.

5. Expect also that your lawyer will keep you on track of what is going on in your case and the possible consequences that might occur. He/She has already set his/her mind to be objective all the time in order to keep well with the proceedings.

6. Don’t worry if you miss out some significant legal regulations because your lawyer will make sure that every action taken against you is in accordance with the law and that you’re not violating any rules as well.

What can you expect from a criminal lawyer during pre-trial?

1.  If charged of any criminal case, expect that your lawyer will guide you on how to answer questions from authorities. This is to avoid disclosing information that can be used against you in the court.

2. He/She is expected to make a deal with the court to drop charges against you if found to have insufficient evidence.

3. If you are detained pending trial because of a crime, usually you are only to be released after you pay the bail imposed by the authorities. It is expected from your lawyer to take the possibilities of convincing the court to reduce your bail or more waive it all.

You may choose to represent yourself in the court. However, being an average person, you don’t have a full grasp of how criminal justice works making it hard for you to keep up with the process and would most likely end up with a no-so-good judgement.

Seek professional and firm help from a good criminal lawyer. Work out your case with Wise & Donahue, PLC, because we don’t only give you a good legal assistance but the best instead. Visit us at 10476 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, Virginia 22030 or contact 703-934-6377.

Wise & Donahue Law Firm10476 Armstrong Street Fairfax, Virginia 22030
703-934-6377
www.wisedonahue.com

What is Paralegal?

According to the American Bar Association (ABA), a paralegal is a person qualified by education, training or work experience who is employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, corporation, government agency or other entity and who performs delegated legal work for which a lawyer is responsible.

They provide support for lawyers making them a valuable part of the legal system. They should perform their job under the direct supervision of a lawyer.

What does a paralegal do?

Paralegals execute a lot of errands inside and outside of office. There are some who spend eight hours a day studying contract documents. Others are occupied for more than eight hours meeting with various clients dealing with paperworks and identifying potential cases. They also assist a litigator in the courtroom from time to time. Moreover, what are the other specific tasks of a paralegal?

• Making sure that the methods taken are legally acceptable
• Conducting legal investigations and organizing evidences for the hearing
• Gathering facts and interviewing witnesses
• Organizing files and preparing legal documents to be used during the trial
• Writing reports as a guide for lawyer on how to handle a certain case
• Conducting interviews with the clients
• Attending and summarizing legal proceedings

What does a paralegal must not do?

What are the limitations of what a paralegal can do? It does include:

• Must not offer legal advice to clients
• Must not represent clients in the court for a trial
• Must not accept clients and ask for a legal fee
• Must not make an initial step to connect with the client
• Must not sign papers which would be filed in the court

What are the skills a paralegal should have?

A paralegal must have good written and communication skills to institute good connection with the clients, witnesses and partners. Likewise, he/she must have exceptional logic and problem-solving skills to to be able to solve minor and major problems in the office as well as in the court.

A paralegal should have good organizing skills to maintain an efficient office in order to keep things running smoothly for everyone.

A paralegal should be tech-savvy, meaning - someone who knows more than the basic use of a computer. Problems in technicalities cannot be avoided and a technologically-inclined paralegal would be of great help in the office. One who knows how to troubleshoot a jammed printer, or knows how to recover lost computer files.

Last but not the least, a paralegal should be people-smart because they will negotiate with clients, witnesses and partners regarding case matters. They should know what words to use for a certain situation and what approach to employ in order to establish credibility and authority.

There’s a slight difference between a lawyer and a paralegal. A lawyer has greater legal credentials, extensive education in the field and a license.

Wise & Donahue Law Firm offers legal assistance for cases such as divorce, family law, criminal lawyer fairfax va, wrongful death, personal injury, construction, commercial and business litigation. Contact us today!

Wise & Donahue Law Firm
10476 Armstrong Street Fairfax, Virginia 22030

703-934-6377
www.wisedonahue.com

Criminal Attorney Fairfax VA: How to Pick Out a Suitable Lawyer

What could be the worst possible fate than facing a criminal charge? The only choice you have is to put your faith to a competent criminal lawyer in fairfax va. One who will navigate you on a smooth road through this challenging situation.

Below are some of the key qualities to look for when you are calling and interviewing prospective lawyers.

• First, find a lawyer who specializes in criminal representation. You can begin by shopping around in your area. This is helpful so that you can learn a little about how they practice this branch of law, their attorney’s fee and importantly their overall character.

• Remember, before you bind yourself to a legal contract with a criminal attorney, see to it that you can both work together in your case. Also, don’t immediately decide after you have your first meeting with your lawyer.

• Find a criminal attorney in fairfax va in which you have that gut feeling of trust. You want someone on your side who does make you uncomfortable especially in private matters. He or she is not just a legal representation moving forward in your case but a close confidant who will be telling you about your options and help you choose the best ones.

Importantly, check for credentials and know upfront how the legal fees are done. Choose a criminal attorney who is honest about the payment of his services. The last thing you would want during the legal proceedings is getting a hefty bill with a representation that doesn’t have the right credentials.

Conclusion:

If you are seeking a criminal lawyer who will give you all the positive check marks advised above, look no further than Wise & Donahue Law Firm . They are located in the following locations for your convenience: Fairfax, Virginia, Annapolis, Maryland, and Reno, Nevada.

The law firm is known for building a solid legal reputation especially when it comes to providing a criminal attorney. Call them for a free consultation today and start realizing that their years of experience will work for you when you moved forward.

Wise & Donahue Law Firm
10476 Armstrong Street Fairfax, Virginia 22030
703-934-6377
www.wisedonahue.com

Criminal Attorney Fairfax VA: A Checklist of Other Questions

Criminal Lawyer Fairfax VA

When you see a criminal attorney for the first time, you might have a lot of apprehensions on your mind. Will you be asking about the experience that he or she has gained? Will it be right to have questions regarding the attorney’s fee? How about the number of times that you will be keep posted on the progress of your case? These are some of the usual questions that will come up prior to your meet-up. But how about those inquiries that are seldom asked.

Here's a checklist of other important questions to ask before you hire a lawyer. Print it out and take it with you; it may help you feel more comfortable asking some of the questions during the interview.

Are You Giving Lectures Presently That Covers Your Practice? Additionally, Have You Written Articles That Have Been Circulated in Law Journals?

A good gauge in finding a criminal attorney fairfax va is the certain number of times that he or she has been invited to speak or train other professionals in the field. Having established a good reputation within these professional conferences is a good factor when you consider hiring someone to represent you. Even much better if your attorney has published works in law journals or reviews. These two factors are an indication that he or she has been recognized for having skill and experience.

Can You Guarantee the Outcome of My Case?

Of course, no criminal attorney can guarantee the outcome of a case. However, he or she should be able to examine your case, talk about the possible legal conclusions, and expect what is likely to happen in your case. Bear something in mind that an attorney who guarantees the results of your case and one who expects what is likely to happen are different. Ask your criminal attorney what will be the possible positive results of your case and what negative results that my surface.

Have You Ever Been Sanctioned for Professional Misconduct?

You may feel somewhat tricky asking this question but it is central to your case. Your criminal attorney’s past resume should present following all the rules, acting professionally, and never telling a lie while working within the judicial branch. You can obtain this information from your state bar association asking your attorney about any misconduct in person gives them a chance to explain the circumstances surrounding a violation.

Remember, your hiring of a good criminal attorney fairfax va depends on your case, your preferences, and your ability to decide who is the right person to represent you.

Wise & Donahue Law Firm
703-934-6377

10476 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, Virginia 22033

www.wisedonahue.com