Ways to Become a Good Defense Attorney
Introduction
Good defense attorneys are in high demand. Although you can’t perform miracles, you can find weaknesses in the state’s evidence and aggressively advocate on your client’s behalf. Being a good defense attorney, however, is a lot of work.
How to Be a Good Defense Attorney
Investigating Your Case Bringing Pre-Trial Motions Preparing for Trial Defending Your Client at Trial
Remember Your Client’s Emotional Needs Keep Your Client Informed Be a Jack of All Trades
Investigating Your Case
Read the state’s evidence Request other information from the state Review videotaped interrogations Talk to your client Visit the crime scene
Bringing Pre-Trial Motions
Ask the court to dismiss the charge Move to suppress statements File a motion to exclude any evidence File motions in limine
Preparing for Trial
Develop your theory of the case. Discuss whether your client will testify. Decide what information you need from each witness Subpoena witnesses Dress your client in a non-threatening manner
Defending Your Client at Trial
Deliver an effective opening statement. Object to inappropriate questions. Impeach state witnesses, if necessary. Question your witnesses. Make a powerful closing argument File post-trial motions, if necessary
Remember Your Client’s Emotional Needs. 
You will need to listen patiently to whatever your client wants to say. You may also need to help them find treatment for any mental health or substance abuse issues.
Keep Your Client Informed ď‚—
Always remind your client to avoid talking about their case to other people. Anything they say can be used against them.
Be a Jack of All Trades
Your clients have lives outside the jail or courtroom, and you might be the only person they can trust. You aren’t a social worker, and you can’t meet all needs. At the same time, however, you need your clients to be focused on their defense. This means you might need to help them get their lives in order.
Who Am I‌ 
John Mattingly Attorney is a criminal defense lawyer who provides the help in defense of individuals and companies charged with criminal activity.