If you’ve found yourself in a bit of a criminal pickle, you may want to find the best attorney possible. But good ones could charge high fees, and you may want to know a few things about criminal defense and payment plans before dialing for attorneys.

Criminal defense attorneys only receive payment for their services through their clients. Unlike in a civil case, there’s no damages to take a percentage of, and no attorney fees to recover. It all comes down to the defendant paying fees. Costs will depend on such things as the criminal charges, your defense strategy, and the attorney’s expertise, reputation, track record, and location.

Working Out a Payment Plan

Criminal defense attorneys will often ask for a retainer upfront, which is a big lump sum of money you hand over in the beginning, and payment is taken from it every time the attorney performs work. It may be hard to get a payment plan for the retainer, because the fee structure of a retainer is diametrically opposed to payment plans. When the attorney requests a flat fee, most criminal defense attorneys will ask for a percentage of the full fee upfront, and then monthly payments thereafter, which, by its nature, creates a monthly payment plan.

Public Defenders Can Be An Option

Always keep in mind that if you can’t afford a criminal defense attorney, you have the constitutional right to have one appointed for you in the form of a public defender, paid by the government. Don’t be fooled by their price. Many public defenders are outstanding at their trade, and choose to be in their position out of the kindness, and fairness, of their heart.

If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges, you will need representation. If you don’t qualify for a public defender, contact as many qualified criminal defense attorneys as you can. Don’t be fooled by prices – some are worth it, and some aren’t. And, like cars, there are good deals to be found. Be honest and upfront about what you can afford, and how you plan to pay.

Related Resources:

  • Find a Criminal Defense Attorney Near You (FindLaw’s Lawyer Directory)
  • Found Not Guilty of a Crime in California, Your Public Defender Fees Are Waived (FindLaw Blotter)
  • Costs of Criminal Justice: Paying Legal Financial Obligations (FindLaw Blotter)

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