If you’ve been charged with a crime in BC, your priority should be getting a lawyer. Depending on your financial circumstances, you might be looking for a free criminal lawyer. While there are options for legal aid in BC (which we’ll discuss), this decision often comes at a greater cost: a lack of experience and expertise. In turn, this could mean you’re sacrificing your future and freedom, which is worth a lot more than a few saved dollars. 

Legal Aid in BC

Legal Aid BC is a government-funded program designed to provide legal services and representation for individuals who cannot afford it. In BC, more than 25,000 people turn to Legal Aid BC each year and their advice lawyers counsel tens of thousands of people annually.

While their representation may be adequate and indeed serves an important purpose, this path isn’t right for everyone. Not to mention, you simply might not qualify for it. 

As their website states, to qualify for BC Legal Aid:

• Your legal problem must be covered by their legal aid rules
• Your net monthly household income and assets need to be at or below their financial guidelines

They encourage you to call them to find out quickly if you qualify for legal aid. 

Hire an Expert Criminal Defence Lawyer

Rather than settling for less experienced or specialized representation, it’s wise to consider hiring a criminal defence lawyer. Many lawyers have affordable rates and payment plans tailored to your specific financial situation. 

While this may seem intimidating, don’t let the fear of cost hold you back from seeking proper legal counsel. Many BC criminal defence lawyers offer free consultations—take advantage of this opportunity to speak with them and discuss your case. 

Benefits of Hiring a Criminal Defence Lawyer

Here are just some of the many reasons hiring a criminal defence lawyer rather than a free lawyer can benefit you and make a difference in your case

Extensive experience and expertise

There’s no substitute for experience and expertise in the legal field. Criminal defence lawyers have dedicated their careers to defending individuals facing criminal charges, giving them a hefty advantage when it comes to understanding the complexities of the law and building a solid defence strategy.

Personalized attention and tailored approach

Criminal defence lawyers work closely with their clients to understand their unique cases and circumstances and build a defence strategy that caters to their needs. This personalized attention allows for a more tailored and practical approach to your case, increasing the chances of a positive outcome.

Knowledge of local courts and legal system

Criminal defence lawyers will have extensive knowledge of local courts and legal systems, including judges, the Crown counsel, and court processes. This can be a precious resource when navigating the legal complexities of your case and understanding the right approach to take.

Strong negotiation skills

In many cases, a criminal defence lawyer’s negotiation skills can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. They have experience negotiating with prosecutors and can often secure reduced charges or sentencing for their clients.

Emotional support and guidance

Facing criminal charges in BC can be an emotionally taxing experience, but having a trusted criminal defence lawyer by your side who has the time to listen and support you can make a major difference. They can provide guidance and reassurance throughout the legal process, helping mitigate some of the stress and anxiety that come with criminal proceedings.

Call Jerry Steele: A Top BC Criminal Defence Lawyer

Whether you don’t qualify for Legal Aid BC or simply want a great defence lawyer on your side, the first call to make is to Jerry Steele. As a dedicated and passionate BC criminal lawyer, Jerry provides exceptional legal representation and personalized attention to each and every one of his clients. 

Call 778-700-0012 today to get the representation you deserve when facing criminal charges.