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If you have a criminal case in Will County – Joliet, Bolingbrook, Plainfield, Homer Glen, or anywhere else in the county – we can help. If you’ve just been arrested, or charged, or even if your case is further along, talking with an experienced criminal defense attorney can give you a better idea of what to expect. Maybe you’re not sure if you need an attorney. We’ll give you our honest opinion as to the proper way to handle your situation.

When recommending an attorney for a Will County criminal case, we almost always look for someone who spends a lot of time at the main Will County courthouse in Joliet. This is true whether you’re facing a misdemeanor or a felony. A local attorney is more likely to know the judge or prosecutor assigned to your case. This doesn’t guarantee an outcome, but if your attorney has a good reputation among colleagues at the courthouse, they may have an easier time negotiating on your behalf. Also, if they are familiar with the courthouse and judges, they may have a deeper understanding of how the system works in those courtrooms. It has been proven over and over that relationships are often the difference between winning and losing.

The courthouse where an attorney appears is just one thing we consider when making a referral. We also consider your particular situation and recommend an attorney who has handled similar cases in the past -- and done so successfully. Experience is another key factor, especially in more complex cases like sexual assault, murder or drug trafficking cases. You don’t want an attorney who is learning how to defend a type of case when your life is on the line.

It’s never too early to talk to an attorney about your case. An attorney can help you understand what you’re up against, answer questions about possible penalties, and offer advice on any defenses that may be available to you. Most criminal defense attorneys offer free initial consultations.

Most Will County criminal defense attorneys charge a flat fee for their services. The amount of the fee depends on the particular lawyer and on the type of case you have. Some will charge one fee if the case is resolved prior to a trial and a higher fee if the case goes all the way to trial. The price can also depend on how much work needs to be done on your case.

Before you hire an attorney for a criminal charge in Joliet, you should talk about your goals. For example, you might not be happy unless you are found not guilty or otherwise have the charges dismissed. Another person might just be thrilled to avoid any prison time. Talking about your goals and how the attorney will pursue them will help you figure out if they are the right defense law firm for you. Some attorneys (not ones we recommend) charge such a low fee that they can’t possibly fight for you to meet your goals; rather we see some attorneys that just help clients plead guilty. You can, of course, do that for free. No one we recommend will guarantee a result, but they all are fighters.

If you have questions about your specific situation, or if you’re wondering whether you need a criminal defense attorney, please contact us. We will listen, answer your questions, and point you in the right direction. All calls are free and confidential.