If you are ever arrested or being investigated for a criminal offense, your first step should be about talking to an experienced lawyer. The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms gives you the right to remain silent, so the police cannot force you to make a confession anyway. In other words, don’t take the police pressure right away. If you have been named as a suspect, you don’t have to go to a police station, although circumstances may vary. In this post, we are sharing more on what it takes to work with a Vancouver criminal defence lawyer. 

Know your lawyer

A criminal lawyer must have the necessary experience and expertise to defend you. Remember that the police and prosecution will be working on building a strong case, so they aren’t entirely on your side. Regardless of what you have been charged with, you have the right to defend yourself, and for that, hiring a known criminal lawyer is critical. Ask the lawyer some basic questions like – 

1. How long have you been practicing as a criminal lawyer?
2. Do you have experience with cases similar to this?
3. How much do you charge for each hour?

As a new client, you have the right to ask about the lawyer’s expertise, and if needed, you can ask for references too. 

Discuss the costs

There are litigation costs and the lawyer’s fee, which may add to your financial burden. Talk to your criminal lawyer about their hourly charge, and it largely depends on the complexities of the case and their expertise. Some criminal lawyers may have additional experience in government or specific cases, which may increase their demand and their hourly rates. While pricing shouldn’t be the only concern about hiring a lawyer, do have a fair idea of the costs you may have to incur. 

Be honest

When you are hiring a lawyer for defending yourself in a criminal case, you have to be honest – period. People often hide facts and details from their criminal lawyer, which only makes things worse. Even if you have committed the crime, your lawyer can still defend you and reduce the quantum of your sentence. If the police have arrested you already, talk to your lawyer and ask them if and what kind of statement may work in your favor. 

Check online for top rated lawyers in Vancouver now and meet them in person to know the possible outcomes and consequences.