How do I find reliable sexual offence solicitors near me?
If you’ve got to the point of searching the internet for “sexual offence solicitors near me”, it’s probably fair to say you probably haven’t had much experience dealing with legal matters. And that this is an extremely stressful time for you.
But choosing the right sexual offences lawyer now is key to how well your case – or that of someone close to you – will play out. This makes this a vitally important decision to get right.
Reach out to us now on 0330 3411690 or complete a Free Online Enquiry to tell us about your particular situation and talk things over with one of our specialist sex offence solicitors for FREE and with no obligation.
Here are some of the most important factors to consider before you engage a solicitor to defend you against any kind of sexual offence allegation:
How Do I Find Reliable Sexual Offences Lawyers Near Me?
It may feel – and it is – critical to get expert legal support on your side as soon as possible when you have been accused of a sexual offence.
However, choosing the first law firm that a quick online search for “sexual offences lawyer near me” throws up is often a mistake. Before deciding on the firm to represent you, be sure to:
1) Look For Quality Indications
For sexual offences, one usually great way of choosing a solicitor you can trust – word-of-mouth recommendations from people you know – is usually out. Even if you are 100% confident in your own innocence, it can be a difficult subject to bring up with all but your closest family and friends.
There are other methods of getting recommendations though. Online is the simplest, with testimonials on a firm’s website, online review sites, and Google reviews offering easy ways to at least get some idea of a firm’s past success and quality.
2) Check Credentials
There are several industry bodies and independent sources of quality verification in the legal industry.
Accreditation from the Law Society is probably the most easily understood. It’s a solid indicator that a firm is trustworthy.
You can also ask for the qualifications of individual solicitors at a law firm. They will almost certainly be happy to talk with you about their experience levels.
3) Explore Fees And Fee Structures
All solicitors – for sexual offences and all crimes – charge fees. There may be some support out there, but you will almost certainly at least need to cover these fees in the short term.
It is always a good idea to discuss fees upfront with any lawyer you are considering using. All fees should be clear and any potential additional costs clearly explained. Be sure to check:
- Do your prospective solicitors charge fixed fees?
- Will they charge more if they need to represent you in court?
- Will they charge per court appearance?
You should be able to see a full breakdown of their fee structure and how it works.
4) Get A Feel For Their Communication Style
If you’re like most people, you won’t have had much cause to engage a solicitor before. One thing that often gets overlooked is how important it is to be able to build a good relationship with the person advising or representing you.
Your lawyer’s quality and style of communication are going to play major roles in this. Remember – this person will have the most influence on whether the outcome of this incredibly important event in your life is positive. You do not want to be chasing them to find out what’s happening. So:
- How fast do they respond to emails?
- Do they answer the phone when you call (or call you back ASAP)?
- Are they polite and helpful?
- Do they speak in plain language rather than legal jargon?
- Are they happy to walk you through complex legal issues without condescension?
5) Reach Out To See If There Is Rapport
If you are getting positive signs after doing the things above, it is worth reaching out to your possible lawyer. There is often no substitute for personal interaction.
This is because, though it sounds fairly unscientific to say, getting a gut feeling about your lawyer is actually quite important. You are going to need to feel confident in this person’s opinions and that they are on your side.
This should be on top of the above, of course. Gut feeling is no substitute for a past history of successful cases and Law Society accreditation. Yet it’s worth asking yourself:
- Do you feel like you and your lawyer are on the same wavelength?
- Do you feel like your lawyer understands you?
- Does your lawyer make you feel safe and/ or confident about your outlook?
Speak With A Trusted Sexual Offences Solicitor – In Complete Privacy
If you want to discuss your own case – or that of someone close to you – with sexual offence solicitors who check all of these boxes, get in touch with us now.
Speak with one of our specialist lawyers in complete confidence and privacy by reaching out to us on 0330 3411690 or complete a Free Online Enquiry. Let’s see if we can build the rapport you need to feel safe and supported at this difficult time.