Finding the “best lawyer” may be harder than you think.
Many people are quick to ask, “how many trials have you won?” or “what’s your success rate?” The problem with those questions is that they over simplify what it means to be a good lawyer.
For example, ff a lawyer only takes a few simple matters to trial, that lawyer is going to have a higher success rate than a lawyer who takes on a larger volume of files that include more complex matters. Sometimes, winning a trial had nothing to do with with the quality of the lawyer at all. The witness may simply have changed their story or refused to testify. Happens more often than you may think. Then there are trials that started off with the client in serious jeopardy (perhaps looking at a lengthy time in custody), but through their careful analysis and sharp questions, see their client convicted of a lesser charge and waking away with a term of probation.
Another point to beware of are Google Reviews. You would be surprised at the number of reviews that are written by friends, family, or even this business owner themselves. If you find a lawyer who has a high volume of reviews, all five stars, ask yourself: is this too good to be true?
So what qualities should you look for when selecting the “best lawyer”?
- If a lawyer tells you that if you pay him/her, he or she will get you off that charge, run don’t walk! There are few guarantees in law and making promises without knowing the evidence (i.e., “disclosure”) is not only foolish, it’s unethical.
- Look for someone who takes the time to listen to your issues and answers your questions with more than just generic responses.
- You may wish to seek out a lawyer or firm that practices exclusively in the area of law you need. Seeing a foot doctor for advice on heart disease isn’t so far from getting wills and estates lawyer to run your jury trial.
- Look for a lawyer that keeps you involved in your own matter. You should know what evidence the Crown (prosecutor) has and when your next court dates is.
- Watch out for those who are quick to speak to the media. “No comment” or “we don’t comment on matters before the court” can be a much stronger indicator of competence than someone quick to speak, especially in generalities.
At Dominion Criminal Defence and Appeals, the best way to find out whether we are the best lawyers, or perhaps, the best lawyer for you, is to give us a call. Speak with one of our criminal defence lawyers one-on-one today. No charge, no commitment.