Best Manchester Criminal Lawyers
Finding the right criminal defense attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of a criminal case. For people charged with crimes in Manchester, New Hampshire, having an experienced local lawyer on your side is crucial. But with so many options to choose from, how do you know which Manchester criminal lawyer is the best fit for your situation?
This article breaks down everything you need to know about finding the top criminal defense attorneys in Manchester, NH. We’ll go over factors to consider when hiring a lawyer, provide an overview of the criminal justice process, and highlight some of the most renowned Manchester criminal attorneys.
Whether you or a loved one is facing misdemeanor or felony charges, this guide will help you make an informed decision when selecting legal representation. Let’s get started!
What to Look for in a Manchester Criminal Lawyer
Specialized Experience
One of the most important things to look for is a lawyer who specializes in criminal defense. Handling criminal cases is very different from other legal practice areas. You want an attorney who is intimately familiar with New Hampshire criminal statutes, case law, and court procedures.
Ideally, you’ll want someone who focuses specifically on the type of crime you’ve been accused of, whether it’s drug charges, sex offenses, domestic violence, or another area. Their experience defending similar cases can be invaluable.
Local Knowledge
It also helps to find a criminal defense lawyer who is familiar with the local courts and players in the criminal justice system. A Manchester-based attorney who regularly practices in the city’s courts will know the prosecutors, judges, and policies to expect.
Someone embedded in the local legal community can better predict how your case might proceed and what strategies may work best. Look for lawyers who have built relationships with court staff and officials in Manchester.
Resources & Track Record
The top criminal defense firms have extensive resources and a proven track record of positive case results. Look for experienced attorneys from reputable Manchester law offices that have successfully defended clients facing similar criminal allegations.
It’s a good sign if they have robust in-house investigative and legal support staff. Their past case wins and settlements can also give you an idea of what to expect.
Client Reviews
Checking client testimonials and reviews can provide valuable insight into a lawyer’s skills and track record. Look for criminal defense attorneys who have consistently positive feedback from former clients. This helps confirm they provide high-quality legal representation and support.
Online reviews on Google, Facebook, Avvo, and other sites can be helpful. But make sure to check for reviews across multiple platforms to get a balanced perspective.
Compatible Personality
Lastly, consider how well your personality meshes with the lawyer’s. Look for someone you feel comfortable with and can trust to fight for you. You’ll be working closely together, so it helps to have an attorney with a style and approach you respond well to.
Most criminal defense lawyers offer free consultations, so take advantage of these to get a sense of their communication style and compatibility.
Overview of the Criminal Justice Process
To find the right lawyer for your situation, it helps to understand the various stages of a criminal case in New Hampshire:
Arrest
If police have probable cause to believe you committed a crime, you may be arrested and taken into custody. At this point, you’ll be read your Miranda rights explaining your right to remain silent and to have an attorney present during questioning.
Booking & Bail
After arrest, you’ll be photographed, fingerprinted, and formally charged. A judge will decide whether to release you on bail/bond or keep you in jail pending trial. A criminal defense lawyer can help argue for your release.
Arraignment
At your arraignment hearing, you’ll be formally notified of the charges against you and asked to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Your Manchester criminal attorney can handle this hearing on your behalf.
Pretrial Motions & Discovery
There may be pretrial motions filed to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. Your lawyer will also request evidence from the prosecution through the discovery process. This helps them build your defense strategy.
Plea Bargaining
Many criminal cases end through plea bargaining where your attorney negotiates with the prosecution. You plead guilty to lesser charges in exchange for a more lenient sentence.
Trial
If no plea deal is reached, your case will go to trial before a judge or jury. Your Manchester criminal lawyer will argue for acquittal by contesting the prosecution’s evidence and witnesses.
Sentencing
If found guilty, the judge determines your sentence based on factors like your criminal history and trial evidence. Your attorney can argue for the lightest sentence possible under the law.
Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer by your side during each stage can make a huge difference in the outcome.
Top Manchester Criminal Defense Lawyers
Now let’s highlight some of the most capable criminal defense attorneys and law firms in Manchester, NH:
Geraldine Karonis – Karonis Law Office
With over 35 years of criminal law experience, Geraldine Karonis is one of the most renowned defense attorneys in Manchester. She has successfully defended clients against a wide range of charges including drug offenses, sex crimes, domestic violence, and homicide.
Karonis is known for her meticulous trial preparation, tough negotiation skills, and compassion for clients. Her clients praise her legal expertise and unwavering commitment to their case.
Mark Sisti – Sisti Law Offices
Mark Sisti is a highly accomplished criminal trial attorney with a long track record of success in Manchester courts. He’s defended clients against serious felony charges ranging from murder and sexual assault to white-collar and drug crimes.
Sisti is a former public defender respected by prosecutors and judges alike. His knowledge of criminal law and trial strategy is unparalleled. Clients commend his straight-talking style and skill at achieving not guilty verdicts.
Richard Guerriero – Lothstein Guerriero PLLC
Attorney Richard Guerriero brings over 20 years of criminal law experience to bear when defending clients in Manchester and across NH. His firm specializes in federal criminal defense for charges like fraud, drug trafficking, and sex crimes.
Guerriero is known for his meticulous case preparation and zealous courtroom advocacy. Former clients praise his legal knowledge and commitment to keeping them out of jail.
Brad Davis – Davis Law, PLLC
Brad Davis is an aggressive and innovative criminal defense lawyer serving Manchester clients. His experience includes everything from DUI and drug possession to domestic violence and sex offenses.
Davis utilizes creative legal strategies and extensive trial experience to secure dismissals and not guilty verdicts for his clients. He’s earned a reputation as a passionate advocate who gets results.
Jonathan Saxe – Saxe Law Office
Backed by over 35 years of criminal defense work, Jonathan Saxe is one of the most respected Manchester lawyers in this field. He handles everything from misdemeanors like theft and DUI to serious violent felonies.
Attorney Saxe is known for his meticulous trial preparation and fierce negotiation tactics. Former clients commend him for his legal knowledge and compassion. His record includes many dismissed charges and not guilty verdicts.
Finding the Right Manchester Criminal Lawyer for You
I hope this overview gives you a good jumping-off point for finding the best criminal defense attorney in Manchester to represent you or your loved one. Take time to research multiple top-rated lawyers’ credentials, reviews, and track records closely.
Schedule consultations with a few potential attorneys to get a sense of their communication styles and compatibility. Look for someone you feel confident will fight tirelessly on your behalf.
The stakes are high when criminal charges are involved, so make sure you make the right choice. With an experienced Manchester criminal lawyer in your corner, you can feel empowered to navigate the legal process and achieve the best possible outcome.