More Traits a Good Criminal Defense Attorney Should Have

Image source: nicholsonlaw.com

It’s not enough that a criminal defense lawyer has the educational background to justify his or her practice; it takes more than knowledge of the legal system to excel in criminal law. A standout criminal defense attorney ensures a fair trial. His or her extraordinary practice is manifested by mastery of various characteristics and attributes.

Firstly, a good criminal lawyer must display integrity. This begins with honesty and straight-forwardness to the client. In no situation should the client be left in the dark as the case progresses.

He or she should have impeccable negotiating skills, always working toward the best possible deal for the client. Unless the client is keen on pursuing the case, settlement should be the first option. A huge number of legal cases in the U.S. alone are settled out of court.

Aside from solid research skills on all aspects of common law, a good criminal lawyer must bring this knowledge to actual court proceedings. He or she must have the appropriate demeanor during trials and must remain unfazed by prosecutors and the judge.

Image source: wilsonlawteam.com

The skilled criminal defense attorney communicates his arguments well, has a sharp mind, can make quick decisions, and displays perseverance, exhausting any angle or avenue to defend and appeal for the client. Because, all in all, he or she truly cares for the client; he or she understands that even a simple guilty verdict with no jail time has big repercussions in the client’s career and private life.

New York-based lawyer Joe Tacopina was a prosecutor in the Kings County District Attorney’s Office, where he prevailed in 39 of 40 trials. He is the founder and Managing Partner of Tacopina & Seigel. More on Atty. Tacopina and his firm here.

What’s The Difference Between a Trial Lawyer And a Litigator?

A degree in law can get you to many places, including non-legal fields like business and management. Lawyers can even choose specializations in different sectors. They can become corporate lawyers, or be part of the criminal justice system as trial lawyers. However, certain cases call for distinguishing between trial lawyers and litigators.

Image source: detectivesindia.com

Litigators are usually employed by a company or a corporation as part of their litigation department. They do not take part in trials and thus have no experience in delivering arguments before a judge or a jury, and making opening or closing statements.

The job of litigators happens outside the courtroom. They gather evidence, file lawsuits, conduct research, and argue motions and defend clients. Their main goal is to have an out of court settlement or to prepare their clients and their witnesses if ever the case does go to court.

Image source: lawyerswithdepression.com

Trial lawyers present a case in front of a judge and jury. They interview witnesses in the stand, argue the legal standpoint of their client, and present evidence in front of a jury. Some would say that good trial lawyers have a flair for debate and public presentation.

Founder and Managing Partner of Tacopina & Seigel Joe Tacopina has received praise from peers and the media as a premier trial attorney. He graduated from the Quinnipiac University School of Law in 1991 and obtained his license in 1992. For more articles on law, visit this website.