Choosing a criminal defense lawyer is an important decision. Criminal defense lawyers are not all the same; every one of them is different in the way they handle cases, be it their experience, ability, or style. A lawyer who would be the best in one type of case may not be in another. Also, depending on the magnitude of the charges and the case, the retainer quoted by a criminal defense lawyer may seem to the client to be extremely high; as much as an expensive car or even a moderately priced house. But remember what is at stake in a criminal case: the liberty of the person accused. When compared to trying to keep one's liberty, money is much less important.

The amount of the retainer paid (whether high or not) is not necessarily indicative of expected quality. Be wary of lawyers who solicit your business make guarantees, or promise good results. The fact of the matter is that no attorney can guarantee the outcome of your case.  They make money off high turnover, and high turnover means that they must plead clients guilty to move on to the next case. No lawyer can ethically or realistically promise a good result.

Criminal defense lawyers often charge flat rate fees, plus expenses. The fee quoted is based on the lawyer's experience in what type of work will be required and how much time it will take. Some lawyers have payment plans. Keep in mind, however, that retaining a lawyer requires the lawyer to take time and devote his or her knowledge and expertise to your case, and, depending on the case, the work is performed in the near future.