Can a Lawyer Guarantee Results for My Case?

Written By: Matthew W. Peterson

Published: 12/07/2019

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Best Criminal Defense Attorney in Boston Massachusetts

Can a lawyer guarantee results for my case? Whenever I speak to a potential client, they ask me what will happen in their case and what the outcome will be. “Am I going to jail?” “Will they give me a green card?” or “Will I be convicted?”

The Reality of Legal Outcomes

I always give the same answer – I don’t know. I can’t guarantee what’s going to happen in your case because I don’t control everything. The judge can make a bad decision, the jury can get it wrong, or there could be a number of things that go wrong.

Basically, I cannot guarantee what’s going to happen in your case. If a lawyer does make a guarantee – they’re lying to you.

Factors Influencing Your Case

There are just too many factors. We could get a bad judge that day or a judge who’s in a bad mood. Their witnesses could come to court and testify very convincingly, while our witnesses could fail to appear. Juries are notoriously unreliable and unpredictable. I’ve seen good cases go badly and bad cases go well, and there’s no way to predict.

Can A Lawyer Guarantee Results for My Case?

In short, I don’t know what’s going to happen in your case, and I can’t guarantee results. As a lawyer, it’s my job to advise you of the possibilities and let you know how likely I think they are. Then, it’s up to you to make the decision. Our job is not to give you a rosy picture of your case so that you’ll hire me – it’s to give you my honest opinion, whether it’s good or bad.

You deserve a lawyer you can trust, whose advice you can rely on. That’s what I strive to do every day. The only guarantee I can give you is that I will fight for you as hard as I can.

Your Boston Criminal Defense Attorney

The Law Office of Matthew Peterson handles immigration, criminal defense, and family law cases in all Massachusetts courts. Contact us today at (617) 295-7500, and let’s get started on your case.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What should I do if I am arrested?

If you are arrested, it is crucial to remain calm and not resist arrest. Exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss your case with anyone until your lawyer is present.

2. How long will my case take?

The duration of a case can vary significantly based on the type of case, the court’s schedule, and other factors. Some cases may be resolved in a few months, while others can take years. Your attorney can provide a more tailored estimate based on the specifics of your situation.

3. What are my rights during legal proceedings?

You have several rights during legal proceedings, including the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, the right to a fair trial, and the right to appeal a decision. It’s essential to understand these rights and how they apply to your case.

4. Can I change lawyers if I am not satisfied with my current one?

Yes, you have the right to change lawyers at any point if you feel that your current representation does not meet your needs or expectations. However, ensure that you understand any potential implications this may have on your case.

5. What are the potential costs involved in hiring a lawyer?

The costs of hiring a lawyer can vary widely depending on their experience, the complexity of your case, and the fee structure (hourly rate vs. flat fee). It’s important to discuss fees upfront and understand what services are included in the cost.