Dealing with a solicitation charge can be a stressful ordeal, but things can get even more tricky when you're charged with something that occurred online.
Lawyers and law enforcement are still finding their way through the complicated world of online solicitation. If you're dealing with a potential online solicitation charge, you're going to need to find a lawyer that can handle your case.
Finding a lawyer for such an important matter can be difficult, and that's especially true if you haven't had to seek legal counsel before. If you want to find the right lawyer you're going to have to do a lot more than just looking for positive reviews. Asking the right questions is key when you're looking for a solicitation lawyer.
If you aren't sure of what to ask, know that we're here to help. Keep reading to learn what questions you need to ask during your lawyer search to ensure that you get the legal help that you need.
5 Crucial Questions to Ask Your Solicitation Attorney
We want to stress that an online solicitation charge shouldn't be taken lightly. In some cases, it can be considered a felony offense that's punishable by jail time. There's even the possibility that you can be charged even if no physical contact was made.
The right lawyer can do more than help you argue your case. They can also serve as your guide through the Texas legal system and can fight for the best possible outcome for your case.
You already know to ask about their fees and credentials, so we're going to focus on other important things. Take time to read through this guide carefully before you start looking for lawyers.
1. How Many Cases Like Mine Have You Handled?
Going to a lawyer that specializes in solicitation won't be helpful if they aren't familiar with handling online solicitation charges. This is why it's important for you to find a lawyer that's intimately familiar with cases like yours.
Don't make the mistake of holding back details of your case when you're talking to lawyers. The more information you give them about your current charges the better they'll determine if they can help you.
Be sure to mention important details of your case. Mention other matters that may affect your cases like having an existing criminal record, your job, and your current family situation.
2. How Often Do Your Cases Go to Trial?
If you're new to the legal system, you may be surprised at how tiring, stressful, and costly criminal proceedings can be. Sometimes the best outcome for you may be to avoid having to appear in court and end things quickly.
Certain solicitation charges may be considered felonies, but you still have the ability to get a plea deal. A plea deal could mean less jail time and less harsh sentences. Being a skilled negotiator is important for any lawyer you work with to have.
Now that you know that they're familiar with cases like yours ask how often they've been able to get plea deals.
If they say that they haven't gotten plea deals in the past, but that they're familiar with cases like yours, don't write them off as bad lawyers. The truth may be that cases like yours are unlikely to get plea deals and that you should adjust your expectations.
3. Will You Be Working on My Case?
It isn't unusual for larger law firms to have a team of lawyers that work on different cases. Going for larger firms may seem like the right way to go, but you may find that you're more comfortable working with one lawyer from start to finish.
The last thing you'll want is for your case to be passed around to busy lawyers that have other cases to worry about. You're going to want someone that can fight for you and will have enough knowledge about the case to best represent you.
It's also worth noting the emotional benefits of working with a small firm on solicitation cases. Solicitation charges can be deeply personal and difficult to deal with. Working with a lawyer you're familiar with and can personally trust can help put you at ease.
4. What Can I Do to Help My Case?
Your lawyer will be arguing your case and fighting for your rights in court. However, there's still plenty you can do on your own to help your case.
Any good lawyer should tell you what you can do to help your case, and that's true even if their advice is to sit back and let them handle things. Even though you're early in the vetting process your lawyer should have a few ideas on what you can do.
Some lawyers may recommend that you enroll in therapy or agree to heavy internet monitoring before the case. Others may recommend that you help them gather records of your online footprint.
5. How Will You Fight for Me?
Now that the lawyer is familiar with your case, background, and ways you can help, it's time to ask them how they plan on defending you. You shouldn't expect to hear a fully thought out criminal defense, but they should have enough information for a basic plan of attack.
They may say that your case could be handled with a plea deal and they should focus on negotiating with the prosecution and judge. It's also possible that they may say you should prepare to go to trial and start working on your defense now.
Get the Legal Help You Need
A solicitation charge doesn't have to be the end of the world for you. Finding the right lawyer that's ready to fight for you can mean the difference between a harsh sentence and a favorable outcome.
We're ready to hear about your case and figure out the best way to help you. Don't wait to hire a lawyer until you're about to go to trial. Be sure to contact us today so we can start working on your case.