Criminal defense attorneys are professionals tasked with defending those who have been accused of a crime. These attorneys work on a case-by-case basis and may specialize in certain areas of criminal law. The specific job duties, responsibilities, and caseload of these professionals can vary greatly between different criminal defense attorneys. As a result, the compensation also varies. Here are some factors that influence the compensation of criminal defense attorneys.
Average Criminal Defense Lawyer Salary
According to Salary.com, criminal lawyers make an average of $94,618 per year in the United States. However, salaries can range from $80,000 to $108,000 per year, depending on experience, geographical location, and the size and type of law firm.
How Much Do Lawyers Make in Different Practice Areas?
Lawyer salaries can vary significantly based on the type of law they practice. For example, public defenders who work for the government typically earn much less than lawyers who work for large law firms.
Criminal defense lawyers who specialize in defending high-profile clients can make millions of dollars per year. These lawyers often charge their clients extremely high hourly rates, and they can make a great deal of money if they win their cases. The vast majority of criminal defense lawyers do not charge exorbitant rates.
Why Does A Good Criminal Defense Attorney Cost So Much?
There are several reasons why a good criminal defense attorney may cost more than other lawyers. First, the stakes are often high in criminal cases, and a good lawyer can make the difference between a guilty and not-guilty verdict. Second, a criminal defense attorney typically needs to spend more time on a case than other types of lawyers, since there is usually more investigation and discovery involved.
Finally, many criminal defense attorneys have years of experience and specialize in this area of law, which makes them more expensive to hire. They know how to navigate the legal system and have a proven track record of getting their clients the best possible outcome in their cases. When you hire a criminal defense attorney, you are paying for their time, expertise, and resources.
Most attorneys charge a retainer fee, which is an upfront fee that covers their initial consultation with you and their work on your case. If you are facing serious criminal charges, it is worth it to hire a top-notch criminal defense lawyer to ensure that you have the best chance possible of winning your case.
Types of Legal Fees
Criminal defense lawyers typically charge their clients in one of two ways: either by the hour or by a retainer. A retainer is a lump sum that the lawyer charges upfront, and that the client pays in order to secure the lawyer’s services. The lawyer then deducts any legal fees incurred from this retainer. An hourly rate is simply an hourly rate that the lawyer charges for his or her services. Many criminal defense attorneys will negotiate their fees with their clients, depending on the nature and severity of the crime.
Types of Criminal Cases Handled by Criminal Defense Lawyers
There are many different types of criminal cases that can be handled by a criminal defense lawyer. Some of the most common include DUI/DWI, assault, battery, domestic violence, drug crimes, theft, and burglary. However, this is not an exhaustive list by any means. If you have been accused of a crime, it is important to consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney to discuss your specific case and determine the best course of action.
Many criminal defense lawyers work in private practice, either as solo practitioners or as part of a law firm. Some criminal defense lawyers are also public defenders, who are appointed by the court to represent indigent defendants who cannot afford to hire an attorney.
When choosing a criminal defense lawyer, it is important to consider the experience and expertise of the lawyer, as well as the fees charged. In some cases, a court may appoint a lawyer for a defendant, but in other cases, the defendant will need to hire and pay for their own attorney.
Contact a Savannah Criminal Defense Attorney Today
There are many reasons why a good criminal defense lawyer may cost more than other lawyers. To ensure that your case is handled by an experienced and capable attorney, it is important to research the field and make your choice based on the qualifications and experience of the Savannah criminal defense attorney. Phillips Carson Phillips can assist with your case. Schedule a consultation by calling (912) 232-0081 or using our online contact form.