Call Us (337) 433-1414
Call Us (337) 433-1414
Most Louisiana criminal defense attorneys charge by the hour, not a flat fee nor on contingency, and hourly fees can range from $200 to upwards of $1,000 or more, depending on the skill and experience of the lawyer and the seriousness of your charges. However, when you are facing criminal charges, the outcome of which could affect the rest of your life, you really do not want to cut corners with your legal representation.
That being said, the best criminal defense attorney is not necessarily the most expensive one. Look for someone who has considerable experience defending people accused of crimes similar to the one you are charged with and who has extensive experience in a courtroom talking to a jury. When hiring a criminal defense attorney, there are a few things you need to know about common fee structures and what additional costs you may have to pay for your defense, in addition to your legal fees.
So, how much will your criminal defense lawyer cost? Some lawyers, such as those who represent people charged with DUI or DWI offenses, or those charged with a petty misdemeanor, may charge a flat fee for representation, as the charges are usually minor, and the amount of time the lawyer spends defending you is fairly standard.
With flat fee arrangements, you pay a certain amount for each stage of the case, such as negotiating a plea deal with the prosecutor, petitioning the judge for an alternative sentencing arrangement (like drug court, community service, or substance abuse rehab). Hourly fees are usually assessed for felony cases and those with more complicated legal questions.
Criminal defense attorneys complete at least seven years of schooling before they even see their first client. Good criminal defense lawyers know how to use evidence to craft compelling arguments in favor of their clients, how to persuade a jury, and which fine points of Louisiana criminal law to use and when. This specialized knowledge and practical experience come at a considerable investment of the lawyer’s time and education, and so won’t come cheap.
The rates a criminal attorney charges are typically based on:
You’ll likely be responsible for paying all the costs associated with your defense, not just your lawyer’s time. These include:
These costs may be deducted from the retainer (your initial deposit for the lawyer’s services) or charged separately.
If you are facing criminal charges, you cannot afford to face the Louisiana criminal justice system alone. Working with experienced attorneys committed to your legal defense gives you the best chance for a favorable outcome, whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a felony.
At the Johnson Firm, we take your rights and your freedom seriously, no matter how complicated the criminal case. We protect you at every stage of the legal process, from your initial arrest through police questioning, and advocate for you in court. Don’t fight alone. Contact us today by calling (337) 433-1414 for a confidential consultation.