What to Look for When Hiring a Criminal Defense Attorney
Finder Law Serves Clients Across Jefferson City, Columbia, and Central Missouri
Receiving a criminal charge is very serious & can have long-term consequences for you, your professional life & your loved ones. It is paramount that you hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who will aggressively seek the best outcome possible for you & your case. Whom you decide to hire can make the difference between a good & bad outcome, so this decision should be thought through carefully. Below are are a few tips of qualities to look for when hiring a criminal defense attorney.
Experience
Criminal defense work is different from any other type of law, so you want someone who has history in this practice area. Some attorneys specialize in specific types of criminal law, so hiring someone that knows exactly how to handle your particular charges is ideal. Here are some questions you can ask to determine if the attorney you’re speaking with has relevant experience:
- Which law school did you attend?
- How many years have you practiced criminal defense?
- Have you represented clients in the past that have been charged with similar crimes?
Anyone who declines to answer your questions or gives vague answers is probably not the best attorney for you.

Local
You’ll want to hire an attorney who regularly practices in the county in which your charges are filed. The more familiarity they have with the judges, clerks, & prosecutors in the area, the more likely you’ll receive a positive outcome. Sometimes, local & county laws can vary as well, so someone with knowledge of those specifics is invaluable.
Personality
When you hire an attorney, you’re hiring an advocate. Even if someone has a great reputation, if you aren’t comfortable with them personally, you should probably look for someone else. You’ll want to find an attorney who is trustworthy & can explain things in a way that you can understand. Finding an attorney who will give you good advice, but still allow you to make your own decisions is important as well. Finally, choose someone who seems compassionate & concerned about helping you.
Hiring a criminal defense attorney is a big decision & can significantly impact your future. Daniel Finder of Finder Law, LLC has over 10 years of experience in criminal law from traffic tickets to felonies. His reputation in the mid-Missouri area is stellar & he will give your case the attention it deserves.
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance, please contact our office directly.
