Facing criminal charges in Virginia can be overwhelming, stressful, and frightening. Your freedom, future, and reputation are at stake, making your choice of a defense lawyer one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. Having served as both a criminal defense attorney and a prosecutor for nearly 25 years, I’ve gained unique insights into what truly makes a defense effective. Here are seven essential questions you should always ask before hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia.

1. What Experience Do You Have Handling Cases Like Mine?

Every criminal case has unique details and challenges. It’s crucial to hire a lawyer who has successfully managed cases similar to yours. Be specific about your charges, and ask your potential lawyer about their experience with similar cases and outcomes.

2. What Are the Likely Outcomes in My Case?

An experienced lawyer will give you an honest assessment of your situation. Though no lawyer can guarantee results, they should be able to clearly outline possible scenarios, including best-case, worst-case, and most likely outcomes.

3. How Often Will You Communicate with Me?

Clear communication is vital. You should feel confident that your lawyer will keep you informed throughout your case. When you work with me, you’ll have direct, consistent communication and clarity about every step in the process.

4. What’s Your Experience with Mental Health and Substance Abuse Issues?

Many criminal cases involve underlying mental health or substance abuse issues. During my years as a prosecutor, I saw firsthand how these factors impacted individuals charged with crimes. Today, I prioritize helping my clients access support and treatment options to address these underlying issues.

5. How Do You Structure Your Fees?

Ask upfront about costs. Your attorney should transparently outline their fees, court costs, potential additional expenses, and any payment options available. You deserve clarity and honesty regarding financial expectations.

6. Do You Have Strong Relationships Within the Local Court System?

Relationships and reputation matter in criminal defense. Ask about your attorney’s familiarity with local prosecutors, judges, and court staff. With extensive experience in Virginia courts, I’ve built strong professional relationships that can positively influence your case’s direction.

7. Why Should I Choose You to Represent Me?

This question invites your attorney to highlight their strengths and philosophy. For me, it’s about empathy, experience, and relentless advocacy. Having served nearly 25 years in both prosecution and defense, I know exactly how the opposition thinks and operates, and I leverage this knowledge to fight passionately for every client.

Ready to Discuss Your Case?

If you or a loved one faces criminal charges, don’t wait. Contact me, Elizabeth Tuomey, directly at 571-565-5440 or visit tuomeylawfirm.com. Your initial consultation is confidential, and together we’ll explore the best possible strategies for your defense.