Choosing the Right Lawyer: Key Qualities to Consider

January 27, 2025by Jeffrey D. Cohen0

When life throws you a legal curveball—whether it’s a criminal charge, a business dispute, or a family matter—finding the right lawyer can make all the difference. But with countless attorneys advertising their services, how do you sift through the noise and choose the best advocate for your situation?

As someone who has built a career defending clients in Queens and beyond, I, Jeffrey D. Cohen, have seen firsthand what separates a great lawyer from the rest. Choosing the right legal representation isn’t just about credentials or courtroom victories. It’s about finding someone who understands your unique needs and has the qualities to navigate the intricacies of your case successfully.

Why Choosing the Right Lawyer Matters

The stakes in legal cases are often high—freedom, finances, reputation, and sometimes even your future. Selecting the wrong lawyer can lead to disastrous outcomes: missed deadlines, weak arguments, and, worst of all, life-altering consequences. In criminal defense, for example, even a single misstep can ripple into devastating effects.

Navigating the legal world is no small feat. Laws, precedents, and procedures form a complex labyrinth that requires an experienced guide. So, how do you ensure you make the right choice? Let me share the essential qualities to look for when hiring a lawyer.

1. Expertise in the Relevant Field

Not all lawyers are created equal, and their areas of specialization vary significantly. If you’re facing criminal charges, a corporate attorney or general practitioner won’t suffice—you need a seasoned criminal defense lawyer.

For instance, defending a case under New York Penal Law § 160.10 (second-degree robbery) requires more than general legal knowledge. It demands a lawyer familiar with New York’s penal code, someone who can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and strategize accordingly.

When interviewing potential lawyers, ask pointed questions:

  • Have they handled cases like yours?
  • What strategies do they use?
  • What were the outcomes of similar cases?

Specialization brings invaluable insights and a proven track record.

Explore more about how expertise shapes criminal defense on my practice areas page.

2. Communication Skills

Legal jargon can feel like a foreign language, and navigating a case without clear guidance can be overwhelming. That’s why transparent communication is non-negotiable. A good lawyer doesn’t just represent you—they ensure you understand every step, from filing motions to negotiating settlements.

When you work with me, you’ll notice I prioritize keeping clients informed. You deserve timely updates, straightforward explanations, and responses to your questions. During stressful times, knowing your lawyer is accessible and engaged can make all the difference.

3. Tenacity and Strategic Thinking

Legal battles aren’t just about who fights harder—they’re about who fights smarter. In criminal defense, for example, cases often hinge on anticipating the opposition’s moves. Prosecutors are skilled at crafting compelling narratives, but an experienced defense attorney knows how to dismantle those arguments piece by piece.

I’ve had cases where evidence initially seemed airtight, only to uncover procedural errors that invalidated it. That’s the power of strategic thinking. A tenacious lawyer examines every angle, scrutinizes every detail, and leverages opportunities to turn the tide in your favor.

Read more about how meticulous strategies make a difference in complex criminal cases on my complex cases page.

4. A Track Record of Success

While no attorney can guarantee outcomes, a history of favorable results speaks volumes. Review a lawyer’s case history:

  • How many cases have they taken to trial?
  • How successful have they been in negotiating plea deals?

I’ve defended clients facing everything from misdemeanor charges to serious felonies, achieving outcomes that safeguarded their futures. While each case is unique, a strong track record often reflects a lawyer’s ability to deliver results.

5. Integrity and Professionalism

Sadly, not all lawyers uphold the ethical standards clients deserve. Some overpromise, cut corners, or prioritize profit over justice. When choosing legal representation, watch for red flags: exaggerated guarantees, evasive answers, or unclear billing practices.

In my practice, integrity is non-negotiable. I provide honest, straightforward advice, even when it’s not what clients want to hear. Building trust starts with transparency and ends with diligent advocacy.

6. Local Knowledge

New York’s legal landscape is as diverse as its boroughs, and navigating it requires local expertise. Judges, prosecutors, and court procedures in Queens differ significantly from those in other counties. A lawyer familiar with the local system can leverage relationships and tailor strategies accordingly.

For example, understanding which arguments resonate with specific judges or negotiating styles of certain prosecutors can give you a crucial advantage. My years of practice in Queens have equipped me with this vital local knowledge.

7. Empathy and Client-Centered Advocacy

Facing legal challenges is one of life’s most stressful experiences. Beyond legal expertise, you need a lawyer who genuinely cares about your well-being. Empathy and understanding can transform a daunting process into one that feels manageable and supportive.

I strive to approach every case with compassion, recognizing that behind every legal file is a person with a story. My job isn’t just to argue your case—it’s to understand your circumstances and advocate for you as a whole person.

8. Transparent Costs

Legal fees can be a significant source of anxiety. A trustworthy lawyer provides clarity about costs upfront, explaining whether they charge hourly rates, flat fees, or additional expenses for investigations or experts.

I believe in transparent billing practices, ensuring clients know exactly what they’re paying for and why. Trust begins with financial honesty.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Lawyer

To ensure you’re making an informed decision, consider asking these questions during consultations:

  1. What experience do you have with cases like mine?
  2. What’s your approach to building a defense?
  3. How often will we communicate, and through what methods?
  4. What outcomes can I realistically expect?
  5. What are your fees, and how are they structured?

The answers will reveal whether the lawyer aligns with your needs and expectations.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Advocate You Deserve

Choosing the right lawyer is about more than credentials and courtroom victories. It’s about finding someone who understands your unique situation, communicates effectively, and is unwavering in their commitment to your case.

If you’re in Queens or anywhere in New York and need legal representation, I’m here to help. With years of experience, local knowledge, and a client-centered approach, I’m dedicated to achieving the best outcomes for my clients.

Legal battles are daunting, but with the right lawyer by your side, you can face them with confidence. Make your choice wisely—your future may depend on it.

To learn more about how I can assist you, visit my homepage.

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Copyright © Law Offices of Jeffrey D. Cohen 2025

Copyright 2025
Law Offices of Jeffrey D. Cohen

According to one of the industry’s leading Legal Directories based on both Peer and Client reviews, Jeffrey D. Cohen is considered one the best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Kew Gardens.   The lawyers at the Law Offices of Jeffrey D. Cohen are amongst the best Criminal Defense Lawyers Queens, New York.  After meeting with Mr. Cohen and his team, we’d like to see if you too consider him as one of the best Criminal Defense Lawyer in Suffolk County, Nassau County and Queens County which include neighborhoods of Jamaica, Middle Village, Forest Hills, Woodside, Ozone Park, Glen Oaks, Elmhurst, Ridgewood, Jackson Heights, Bayside Queens Village, Bellerose, Fresh Meadows, Glendale, Richmond Hill, Howard Beach, Ridgewood, Long Island City, as well as other neighborhoods in the counties of Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island.

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