Morristown, NJ criminal defense lawyer Blair R. Zwillman explains what makes his firm different from others and what you should look for in hiring a lawyer. He explains that he provides individual attention to each client, ensuring that every person receives a personal response whenever possible, even while managing trial and court obligations. While he employs staff on an as-needed, outsourced basis, he prioritizes direct communication, understanding that clients often come to him during highly stressful periods of their lives. His goal is to offer the personal attention and accessibility that larger law firms may lack.

When selecting a criminal defense lawyer, he advises clients to consider several key criteria. First, experience is critical: the lawyer should specialize in criminal law and have substantial practice in that area. Experience as a former prosecutor, while not essential, can be valuable in understanding how cases are approached from the other side. Clients should also review past results, and attorneys can often provide references or examples of previous cases. Online research can also help gauge a lawyer’s reputation and consistency in handling criminal matters effectively.

He emphasizes the importance of mutual confidence before entering a retainer agreement. The client should feel positive about the attorney’s competence and approach, and the attorney should be confident in their ability to represent the client effectively. Criminal cases are inherently stressful, and establishing a comfort level and cooperative relationship between attorney and client is essential for navigating the challenges of the legal process successfully.