The Sixth Amendment of the US Constitution gives defendants the right to an attorney to help them in their defense. If someone cannot afford one on their own, they are appointed a public defender. But, regardless of whether that lawyer is hired or appointed, they are required to give you the best defense possible. If you have doubts that your defense attorney is not doing their job to the best of their ability, you need to know if it is possible to change your lawyer and how to do so.
If you are interested in switching criminal defense attorneys in Cincinnati, Hamilton County, or elsewhere in Southern Ohio, call (513) 338-1890 or send us a message for a free initial consultation about your case.
Cincinnati criminal attorney Brad Groene is an experienced lawyer, and frequently handles OVI charges, drug possession charges, driving under suspension charges, and other criminal cases.
Can You Switch Attorneys During a Criminal Case in Ohio?
Yes, you can. But, depending on where you are in your case, the judge can overrule it. So, before you do anything, speak to your criminal defense attorney and see if the problems can be fixed.
If they cannot, ask the judge if you can make a change.
Switching from a Public Defender to Private Defense Attorney in Ohio
Many public defenders do their jobs well. But sometimes they are loaded with cases and do not have time to do the best work for you.
If you feel that you are in a situation like this, you can seek a private defense attorney. You will need to notify the court before your next hearing so that they can make any adjustments required.
Finding the Right Fit for Your Case
Different attorneys specialize in different aspects of the law. So before you pick someone new, research which lawyers in your area specialize in the crime(s) you are fighting.
Many criminal defense lawyers offer free consultations where you can ask questions about their experience, results, fee structures, and more. See how often they have encountered a situation like yours and how well they fared.
How to Change Attorneys in Your Ohio Criminal Case
If you feel that every option has been exhausted and want to change your attorney, follow these steps to get new counsel:
- Ask the court for permission to find new legal representation. If they approve, continue with the next steps.
- Tell your lawyer in writing that their services are no longer needed. This can be through physical or electronic means.
- Make sure your now former attorney is paid up to date. If not, they can come after you later.
- Find the lawyer that you feel more comfortable with.
- Hire them on and present them at your next court date.
At What Point Do You Hire a New Criminal Defense Lawyer?
You need someone to advocate for you in front of the court to prove that you are not guilty of the accused crime or that you do not deserve the harsh penalties associated with it. This person is your attorney.
But that does not mean that your attorney is right for your situation. Some of the key signs that your lawyer might not be suitable for you include:
Poor Results
They are not getting the results you hoped for or led you to believe they could achieve.
Bad Communication
They are not updating you about changes in the case or making decisions without consulting you first.
Lack of Professionalism
They are constantly late, lose/forget to submit documents or forget key facts about the case at crucial times.
If you encounter one or all of these, it is time to consider a change in representation.
Contact Luftman, Heck & Associates to Find the Right Criminal Attorney for You
Finding a criminal defense lawyer can be difficult, but the right one can fight to get your charges reduced or dismissed altogether. Attorney Brad Groene has experience representing those fighting numerous court cases, ranging from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies.
Contact Cincinnati criminal defense attorney Brad Groene at Luftman, Heck & Associates to see how he can help. Call (513) 338-1890 or send us a message for a free initial consultation about your case.
