If you have a loved one who has been charged with a violent crime, they may still be sitting behind bars because their bail is so high or because no bail was set. As such, you may be looking to help obtain a violent crimes attorney to help them. If you have never been in this position before, you may not know what to look for in an attorney. Most criminal defense attorneys offer a free consultation where you can get to know the attorney. During this consultation, there are certain questions you want to ask an attorney to determine if they are a good fit for your loved one's needs. Here are a few questions you should ask a violent crimes lawyer who you are thinking of retaining.

Can You Help at a Bail Reduction Hearing?

If your loved one is sitting behind bars still because their bail is more than what you are they can afford, you may want a lawyer who can help at a bail reduction hearing. Those charged with violent crimes have higher bail amounts or may have no bail amount if they are deemed a threat to the public. A great violent crimes attorney can help to show the good side of your loved one, helping to convince a judge to grant bail or reduce the amount of the bail.

What Is Your Track Record With Cases Involving the Charges My Loved One Is Facing?

Another question to ask a criminal defense attorney or violent crimes lawyer is what their track record is with cases involving the charges your loved one is facing. Asking what the attorney's overall track record is is not a great indicator as to how they will do for you. They may win fifty percent of their cases, but they may have lost every case involving the charges that your loved one is facing. As such, ask what their track record is with the specific charges your loved on is facing to find an attorney who can help your loved one beat these charges.

What Type of Outcome Do You Think Is Possible For My Loved One?

Lastly, ask the violent crimes attorney what outcome they think is reasonable for your loved one. The attorney may think that there is a lot of evidence against your loved one and may push for a plea deal, whereas your loved one may want to take the case to trial. You need to ensure that your loved one and the attorney are on the same page as far as their expectations and what they feel the best outcome may be.

If your loved one was charged with a violent crime, there may a lot on the line, including their freedom. As such, you want to take the time to find the best attorney for their situation. Knowing what questions to ask may help you find the right attorney for your loved one. Contact law firms like Villarini & Henry LLP for additional information.