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13 Jun 2022

There is common ground, to some extent, when it comes to the qualifications of a criminal solicitor – there is the undergraduate degree followed by more years of study, completing numerous courses like the Graduate Diploma in Law and Legal Practice Course. Next to this must-have qualification is practical experience in representing and defending clients successfully. But not all solicitors in the practice of criminal law are created equal, especially when it comes to the manner in which they choose to serve their clients.

At ABV Solicitors, we understand that facing criminal charges can be one of the most nerve-wracking experiences in anyone’s life. So much depends on the outcome that the criminal investigation process is laboured with stress and anxiety.

The type of criminal solicitor one hires can either help relieve the stress and anxiety or add to it with a cold and uncaring demeanour. This is why it is always a good idea to carefully consider the qualities of the criminal solicitor one turns to for advice, guidance and support.

The official duties of a legal practitioner may be to offer legal advice and guidance, but many clients also appreciate the comfort and support of an empathetic and engaging criminal solicitor.

What to look for when choosing a criminal solicitor

Approachability

In order to understand your case fully, the solicitor needs to be made aware of all the intricacies and complexities involved in the case made against you. It would help if the chosen solicitor is approachable and exhibits a caring attitude to gain complete trust and faith from the client.

Superior communication skills

It is the nature of what solicitors do that requires them to excel in written and verbal communication. Whether it is liaising with the police, interviewing witnesses or putting forth arguments in a court of law, it is essential that a solicitor be confident in their communication skills.

Extensive knowledge of criminal law

It cannot be emphasised enough that to have the best chance of defending a criminal case successfully, you need to have a solicitor on your side with the relevant knowledge of and experience in criminal law. Expertise in another area in the practice of law, say, for example, family law, will not help.

Must be a strategic quick thinker

Changes in the criminal investigative process can change at a moment’s notice, and a good solicitor must be able to react quickly to changing circumstances. They must be able to envision different scenarios and adapt their defence strategy accordingly.

Work in the best interests of their client

This is not always a given as some legal practitioners serve their egos when working on a case. Aiming to attain the best outcome for their clients may mean solicitors will have to acknowledge there are times when it is suitable to be patient and passive and, at other times, aggressive when the situation calls for it.

There is no better way to gauge whether a criminal solicitor is a right fit for your case than through a face-to-face meeting. There are a number of qualities that can be assessed in such a meeting, including how they make you feel. Give us a call at ABV Solicitors to schedule an appointment with our talented and vastly experienced team of criminal solicitors.