It could be a harrowing experience to be charged with child abuse. You could also be charged with penalties higher than what your actions may warrant. That’s why it’s crucial to find the right legal help. While some misdemeanors will only get you fined, others could put you behind bars, under probation and impose all sorts of legal limitations to you that will curtail your freedom in every way.
Seek Out Help Right Away
If you think you will face charges of this sort, then start looking for a child abuse attorney in Austin as soon as possible. The sooner you do, the sooner you and your lawyer can work together to counter the charges.
Look for Experience
There’s nothing wrong with hiring a lawyer who has only been on the job for a year or less. But that lack of experience in handling a case of this kind might cost you. Experienced lawyers already know and recognize the nuances of cases they’ve worked on for years. That’s why experience matters. They know what signs to look for, what the prosecution might do to an extent, and how to defend your case much more effectively.
Talk to the Lawyer
Make an appointment for a consult. It doesn’t need to be in person, especially if you’re pressed for time. A video consult should be enough to give you an idea of the kind of person the lawyer is and whether you two are a good professional fit. If that’s not the case, look elsewhere.
Consider Communication Style
It’s ideal to hire someone who’s confident about representing you in court but also attentive to your needs as a client. But if your lawyer is only great in court and hard to talk to during consults, that might not help you. If your lawyer talks over your concerns, ignores them, and then presents you with a plan without considering your needs, find someone else.
