03 Apr Why Do You Need a Certified Criminal Attorney?
The Bar Association of Arizona certifies several areas of law from mediation services to worker’s compensation. To become certified in an area of law, the lawyer must meet several standards. Certified criminal attorneys are lawyers who have earned a specialty in criminal defense.
A certified criminal attorney is a lawyer who has demonstrated superior knowledge, skill, integrity, professionalism, and competence in practicing criminal law. This is one of the eight areas of law that the Arizona Board of Legal Specialization uses to identify outstanding lawyers and help them to better serve the public.
Do I Really Need a Certified Criminal Attorney?
Technically, no. However, you have a better chance of winning your case when you do. Choosing a certified attorney will help you narrow your search for a defense lawyer and secure the best outcome for your case. Here’s why.
- Having an impartial group identify an attorney’s credentials and experience gives you a leg up in choosing the right attorney to defend your case.
- Certified attorneys need to have a certain number of qualified years of experience as a lawyer, as well as a certain number of years practicing in their state. Certified attorneys have had the opportunity to fine-tune their skills within the local justice system.
- This certification requires that the attorney dedicate a certain number of cases each year to their specialization. This stipulation helps a lawyer stay on top of any changes in the justice system and state laws.
- Certified lawyers must also receive peer reviews from other lawyers, judges, and other professionals in their specialty. Favorable reviews from others show that they are an asset to their clients and successful in winning their cases.
How to Find an Attorney You Can Count On
Being charged with a crime can have major repercussions on your life, whether it’s a felony or misdemeanor. If you’re convicted, you might have to spend time in jail or prison, and have to pay fees, fines, or reparations. But even more significantly, life after a conviction may become more complicated. It is often difficult for those who have been convicted to find work or even housing after they have served their sentences.
Without a good lawyer, building an adequate defense is impossible. And even when you choose a certified lawyer, you should make sure that they meet several other requirements.
- They should work within your jurisdiction. Choosing a lawyer within the jurisdiction of your case ensures they are aware of the specific rules of that court as well as local laws and regulations.
- They should have positive testimonials from other clients. Just like you wouldn’t eat at a one-star restaurant, you want a lawyer who has good reviews.
- They need to understand the importance of your case and handle it personally, instead of passing it off to someone else.
- A good lawyer should also work with you on building your defense, involving you in the process so that you understand exactly what is going on.
Todd Coolidge Checks All the Boxes
Todd Coolidge is a Certified Criminal Attorney with over 25 years of experience in the Arizona courts. He believes that every case deserves his personal attention, and he understands the importance of keeping you involved in your own defense. Todd Coolidge earned his certification in 2000, and he even works with the Criminal Law Advisory Commission to screen new applicants looking to add this certification.
If you have been charged with a crime, you need a certified defense attorney who can secure the best outcome possible. Contact us today for a consultation on your case.
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