3 Critical Warning Signs You May Be Working with the Wrong Attorney

 Whether you’re dealing with DWI charges, a drug offense case, or any other serious allegations, working with an experienced attorney can make the difference. If your attorney lacks experience, expertise, dedication, and attention-to-detail, you could end up facing serious charges and potentially relinquishing your freedom.



Here are three critical warning signs to look for if you think that you’re working with the wrong attorney. Continue reading to understand where they’re going wrong, and what you can do about it.

1. They’re Not Worried About the Details

The devil is, indeed, in the details. In many cases, attorneys handle so many cases that they end up spreading themselves too thinly. None of their clients are getting their full attention, so you’re not alone. Ultimately, this affects the quality of your defense because the difference in guilt or innocence could be a fairly minute detail—like a field sobriety test that wasn’t properly administered or a breath testing machine that wasn’t properly calibrated or maintained. All of these affect the evidence that the state will bring against you and your attorney needs to be on top of them.

If your attorney isn’t too worried about the details and promises a successful outcome without getting into the particulars, consider this a red flag. If they ask you for very little information, that could mean that they’ll barely scratch beneath the surface and attempt to gain more insight. Don’t settle for an attorney who is nonchalant or indifferent. Your life, career and reputation are on the line and you deserve vigilant representation.

Recommended Read: 10 Things to Know if Stopped for DWI

2. They Lack Empathy Or They’re Arrogant



Regardless of the nature of your case, your attorney should be empathetic. From the very beginning, they should take the time to understand your situation—both legal and personal—and provide reassurance. Just because you’re vulnerable, doesn’t mean you have to put up with an arrogant attorney. Don’t let them lecture you on what a mistake you’ve made—you know that already. You need solutions, not someone to keep beating you up with the problem again.

If your attorney lacks compassion for your situation, it’s unlikely that they understand what you’re going through. While they may be an excellent attorney, their lack of empathy simply isn’t good form.

Look for qualities that will allow you to form a trust with your attorney. Empathy, understanding and the ability to listen. These qualities will help you feel comfortable, at ease, and relaxed as you navigate the ebbs and flows of your case.

3.They Aren’t Honest and Upfront About Their Fees

If your attorney is unprofessional about billing, you may want to look for the nearest exit sign. A scrupulous attorney will walk you through the expenses from the get-go. Many criminal defense attorneys will quote a fee structure based upon your particular case. Get a quote from them for the initial case, the ALR hearing and if the case goes to trial. Expungements are typically separate charges if you case is dismissed or you’re found not guilty.  

If your case takes an unexpected turn and there are additional expenses, they’ll inform you at the earliest time to ensure transparency.

If your attorney does not send you a quote upfront, consider it a big red flag. Towards the end of the case, the expenses could easy pile up. To avoid this, make sure your attorney is honest and upfront about the billing process.

Recommended Read: Finding the Right Criminal Defense Attorney

Looking for an experienced criminal defense lawyer in the Greater Houston area? Call Attorney JL Carpenter today at 713-561-5931. With extensive experience and expertise, she handles a wide range of criminal cases from DWI and DUI to domestic violence defense. Click here to learn more about JL’s practice. Once you’re ready, schedule a consultation. She defends clients in Clear Lake, Friendswood, League City, Galveston, Webster, and other cities across the Houston Metro area.

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