How Do You Know You’ve Chosen the Right Criminal Defense Attorney?

In today’s world of “defund the police,” police reform, and public criticism, more and more law enforcement officers are finding themselves under investigation, facing charges, or anticipating legal scrutiny from an on-duty incident. As a law enforcement officer, every situation is uniquely complex. The stakes are not only legal—they’re personal, professional, and often political. Choosing the right attorney isn’t just important—it’s essential.

Having spent my career first as a Military Police officer, then as a prosecuting attorney and now defending law enforcement professionals, I’ve seen the difference it makes when an officer is properly represented by someone who understands the complexities of the job.

Here are five key signs that you’ve chosen the right attorney to defend you:

1. They Understand the Realities of Police Work

Your attorney should know what it’s like to make split-second decisions, operate under policy constraints, and face Monday-morning quarterbacking from internal investigators, the public, and the media. If your attorney doesn’t understand use-of-force continuums, chain of command, or how qualified immunity operates, they’re not equipped to fully defend you.

Ask yourself: Can my attorney explain what I did in a way that makes sense to a civilian jury, while emphasizing the realities of the job?

2. They Don’t Just Defend You—They Must Protect Your Career

An arrest or indictment is just one front. The other is administrative: internal affairs investigations, decertification proceedings, and the potential loss of pension or employment. A good attorney for law enforcement will anticipate how each legal move affects your professional standing—and advise you accordingly.
They should coordinate with your union rep if appropriate, understand the LEOBR (Law Enforcement Officers’ Bill of Rights) where applicable, and fight to preserve your ability to wear the badge.

3. They Know the Difference Between a Mistake and a Crime

Law enforcement work isn’t perfect. Mistakes happen—but not all mistakes are crimes. The right defense attorney will push back aggressively when prosecutors try to criminalize policy violations or split-second decisions made under stress. You want someone who isn’t afraid to challenge the narrative, cross-examine so called use-of-force “experts,” and demand a fair look under the totality of circumstances—not just a few seconds of edited body-cam footage.

4. They Communicate Clearly and Often

You deserve more than a lawyer who appears just before your court date and disappears in between. The right attorney will keep you informed, explain the strategy, and prepare you thoroughly for interviews, hearings, and testimony. If your lawyer is hard to reach, avoids tough questions, or doesn’t seem to value your input—take it seriously. Your career and freedom are too important to entrust to someone who isn’t fully engaged.

5. They’re Respected—Even by the People Who Oppose Them

The best defense attorneys in this field have earned the respect of judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement leadership—not by being agreeable, but by being prepared, professional, and relentless. Ask around. If your attorney’s name gets nods of respect from those who’ve been in your shoes—or those who’ve been across the aisle—you’re likely in good hands.

My Final Thoughts

Being under investigation or facing charges is one of the most stressful experiences a law enforcement officer can endure. You need someone in your corner who knows how to navigate the law, the politics, and the media storm—someone who’s walked this path before with others like you. If you’re unsure whether your current attorney fits the bill, trust your gut. This is one of the most important decisions of your career—and your life.

You don’t just need a lawyer. You need the right one.