1. Remember no lawyer can guarantee or promise a result. If one does - RUN.

2. A lawyer who "runs down" or "bad mouths" another lawyer is unethical. Also RUN.

3. Ask if there is a consultation fee; if so, how much.

4. Criminal lawyers set their fees based on the seriousness of the charge(s), your criminal record; if any, and the time that might be required to properly handle your case. The size of the fee has no bearing on a lawyer's competence.

5. Lawyers.com is a good source to find a criminal lawyer by location.

6. Does the lawyer devote the majority of his/her time to criminal law?

7. No question is too stupid to ask a lawyer. Not asking a question is stupid.

8. When dealing with law enforcement you need a criminal lawyer.

9. Criminal lawyers come in all shapes, forms and ages. Pick someone with whom you feel comfortable.