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Finding A Lawyer Near Me

We’ve discussed, in another blog, why it’s essential to hire the right defence lawyer and how to find them. Now, we want to address the merits of hiring a local defence lawyer rather than someone who does not live in your area. When you face charges, it can be tempting to look for a non-local defence lawyer to defend your case.

There are many different reasons why people choose defence lawyers that don’t live in their city or province, and mainly it boils down to reputation. When you see a reputable lawyer with a history of good outcomes, specifically in the practice area you’re facing charges in, it’s easy to get swept up and want to retain them because of their legal talent.

Benefits Of Hiring Local Versus Non-Local

The benefits of hiring a local versus a non-local defence lawyer mainly depend on your specific case and preference. Typically, hiring non-local defence lawyers costs more as you have to account for travel expenses. Additionally, if meeting face-to-face is important to you, hiring outside your area can add an extra barrier to that.

A local defence lawyer can have many benefits, including being familiar with local courtroom practices, judges, and other judicial staff. It will also be convenient to meet with them.

So Why Hire A Local Defence Lawyer?

There are many benefits to hiring a local lawyer to defend your case. You can view directories in your area, such as the Law Society Of Alberta’s “Find a Lawyer” service. Even a quick web search for “local defence lawyers in Calgary” will yield many results. You also won’t have to worry about them having to make travel arrangements to defend your case, resulting in fewer expenses. There are also many other benefits of hiring someone from your area.

Ross Lutz Barristers Google Maps Local Lawyer

Familiar With Local Law

Every single city and province operate with their own specific bylaws and rules of practice. When you choose a local defence lawyer, you’re choosing someone intimately familiar with these bylaws. They are also familiar with practicing with these particular rules in mind. A defence lawyer that practices within our province will know how to pursue your case’s best defence based on the local laws.

Being Reputable In The Local Community

Local lawyers regularly work with everyone within their judicial system. They will know everyone involved in this process and are known by the judges, prosecutors, and even court clerks. This can create an advantageous situation for you. As your lawyer understands how to work with court personnel to achieve the best outcome. Some arguments are more persuasive with certain judges, and your defence lawyer will handle a situation in your favour.

Additionally, when you hire a defence lawyer, their reputation is well known within the judicial systems. Having high regard within the local legal community can affect how judges, court clerks and arresting officers interact with your lawyer. Suppose you’re hiring a defence lawyer who is not familiar with everyone in the jurisdiction where you’re facing sentencing. In that case, they might have to work harder to build and argue your case as they do not have connections in the community.

Ability To Meet Regularly

When you hire a local, you don’t have to worry about them being reluctant or challenging to meet — having to arrange to travel to see a client might make a non-local lawyer reluctant to meet regularly. While we have so many technological platforms that allow meeting virtually, if you’re the type of person that prefers to have face-to-face conversations, it’s better to hire someone in your area. There are fewer barriers when you’re in the same city.

Ultimately, whether you decide to hire locally or not is up to you. Non-local defence lawyers can defend you regardless of their primary location. Technologies such as video calls allow you to meet them virtually and work with them closely during your case. They will still show up to your trial date the same as a local lawyer. It depends on your preferences entirely.

There are advantages and disadvantages to hiring either option for your legal advice. Still, the most important thing is making sure to consider their experience and whether they’re the right fit for you. Regardless of where your lawyer is located, their experience in practicing law and how well you get along is essential.

Are you currently facing charges? Ross Lutz Barristers handles local cases in Calgary and area, along with non-local cases across Canada. Trust in our years of experience, and let us defend your case today. Contact our qualified team to see how we can assist you.

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