Just like all people are not the same, all attorneys are not the same.  Some attorneys have a more aggressive approach, while others have a softer, more milder approach. Our firm, for instance, takes a strategic and comprehensive approach to each case, ensuring that every aspect is thoroughly examined and all possible defenses are explored.

Depending on the type of case you're talking about, that would probably dictate the best approach.  But, when you're looking to hire an attorney for a criminal case in Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, or any of the surrounding areas, there are a good amount of attorneys out there who practice criminal defense.

The one that's right for you is likely going to have a number of key characteristics. For instance, if you're facing charges for DUI, drug offenses, or violent crimes, you'll want to ensure the attorney has experience in these specific areas.

Experienced Lawyer

You obviously want to get somebody who has been practicing for a while. There are a lot of attorneys who are able to advertise successfully on the internet, for example, but have only been practicing for a very short amount of time. So, even though they can get a top spot on the internet, they may still need to be good attorneys. 

So, get somebody with experience with the type of case you have pending against you.  I would say that would be number one.

Choose a Lawyer You Feel Comfortable With

I think you want to meet with your attorney. When I meet with people, it gives me a good gauge of who they are and the type of case we're talking about — and I think the reverse is true.  I think the

client gets a good opportunity to see who I am, what I am all about, what type of experience I bring to bear, and what my temperament is because whoever the attorney is that you choose to represent you in your criminal case, they are going to be the one speaking to the prosecutors, the one speaking to the judge on your behalf. 

That's going to be the attorney cross-examining witnesses if the case gets litigated by way of a preliminary hearing, for example, or a trial, any motions that are filed on your behalf.  So, you want to get an attorney that you feel comfortable with — somebody, that when you talk to them, look them in the eye, you get a good sense that they know what they're talking about.

Lawyer Who is Honest About Your Case

I think another important factor to consider when choosing the best attorney for your case is to make sure that the attorney is being honest with you — is leveling with you about your scenario — your particular case. I hear all the time people are calling into law offices, and they get a great rosy picture of what the attorney can do for them.

Then, they came and met with me, and we started talking about the case, and they said well, the other attorney said so and so.  The person who answered the phone for the other attorney's office said this.  I tell them, wait a minute.  They don't even know anything about your case. 

Just because they're painting some rosy picture of what might happen, does that really give you any sense of security — any sense that this person is going to be able to get your case dismissed, for example?  Because if it does, you're fooling yourself.  It would be best if you let the attorney evaluate the facts of your case. 

What you have to say is obviously very important, but also what the evidence has to say.  What type of evidence are the prosecutors going to be able to present against you?  Then, the attorney will be in a position to really give you a good sense of what's going on.  So, don't be fooled by these law firms that are just painting some rosy picture without having any of the facts of your case to plug in to compare it against what they're talking about.

Attorney with a Good Reputation

The last thing I would say when you're considering an attorney is that you want to get somebody who has a good reputation. Obviously, online reviews and maybe a referral from a friend or you see something on the internet that you like make you feel the person has a good reputation, and when you go to talk to a person, talk to them about that.

You want the attorney to know the judge's tendencies and the prosecutor's tendencies. One who has a pretty good feel for the courthouse that your case is pending in because that is a huge factor that goes into a successful resolution — whether that resolution is by way of a negotiated plea or by way of a trial.

So, if you're looking for the best attorney in Los Angeles, somebody who will fight for their clients and who will also be honest with them, you've come to the right place. I've been doing this for 26 years and have successfully defended numerous clients in cases ranging from DUI to homicide. I stand ready to bring this experience to your case.

Pick up the phone. Make the call now. Ask to speak to Ron Hedding. I stand at the ready to help you. I have written most of this website, and I know how to win a criminal defense case.

I know how to negotiate a criminal defense case, and I think once you meet with me, you will get a very good feel for how I am here to help you.