How Much Should You Have To Pay For The Best Criminal Defense Lawyers?
Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. offers these insights.
A Public Defender Will Cost You Nothing
The Constitution guarantees an attorney for anyone charged with a crime. Many public defenders are overburdened with cases and often inexperienced in court, but they are usually competent and passionate about their jobs. While you might obtain more personal attention from a private attorney that you hire yourself, you are always better off having a public defender than defending yourself.
Because of all that is involved in preparing and defending a case, as Abraham Lincoln once noted, “He who represents himself has a fool for a client.” A criminal attorney is in a better position than most people to determine if the evidence against you will hold up in court, to negotiate a favorable outcome, and to offer you advice. When you pay for an attorney, you are paying for knowledge and experience.
What The Best Criminal Lawyers Charge
The fees for a criminal attorney can run into the thousands of dollars for misdemeanor, and start at $10,000 to $15,000 for a felony. A murder case might cost $100,000 or more. Only after you have a discussion with an attorney and present the facts of your case will he be able to provide an estimate of your potential attorney’s fees.
Criminal defense attorneys can charge by the hour or by a flat fee. While hourly fees are considered more customer friendly, the final amount can be considerable if the case becomes complicated or proceeds to trial. Many attorneys offer a retainer that covers a specific block of time, with the understanding that the fees will increase if the case goes to trial.
Costs and expenses for investigation, research, court filings, travel, etc. are in addition to the fees for the lawyer’s time. Attorneys with a vast amount of experience like Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. may cost more than other attorneys, but you are paying for over 35 years of experience and a proven winning track record.
Know What You Are Paying For
In contracting with the lawyer, make sure to discuss the fee structure he offers in great detail. There is a difference between an hourly rate among attorneys, but when your freedom and liberty are at risk, an effective defense can be expensive.
The experienced and competent attorneys at Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. are committed to charging you reasonable fees, yet are considered among the best criminal defense lawyers in the area. For information or to schedule an appointment, call us at 608-256-8356 or contact us online.