We’ve spent a lot of time discussing what families and parents should do when CPS shows up on their doorstep, or files a petition against you. (If you missed those articles, we recommend you take a moment to get caught up here.) But while we’ve provided lots of info on what to do and what not to say, one thing we haven’t taken the time to address is how to choose the right attorney to help you fight CPS. And as you can imagine, having the right attorney can make ALL the difference to your case.

Do I have to hire an attorney if CPS has accused me of a crime?

No, legally you don’t HAVE to hire an attorney when CPS comes knocking on your door. But you should! In the same way that you could choose to go mountain climbing without a safety harness, or choose to use toxic chemicals without the right personal protective equipment on, but why would you? The outcome is almost certain to be a disaster.

But how do you know you’re getting a good attorney?

There are lots of things to consider when choosing your Michigan CPS defense attorney, and it can be very overwhelming to wade through all of your options and make the right choice. So let’s take a look at some things to keep in mind while making your selection:

• Do some research before making your choice!

Read up on the attorneys you are considering hiring. Look at things like where they went to school, and what degree they hold. Having a Juris Doctorate, also called a Juris Doctor, from a reputable law school goes a long way, especially if the attorney graduated cum laude (which means “with honors” in Latin).

Also, look at what kind of law they specialize in. An attorney who does primarily drunk driving defense isn’t going to have the expertise to handle your CPS defense case. And finally, look at what professional memberships and legal organizations they belong to. (A practicing Michigan attorney must belong to the State Bar of Michigan.)

• Read their online reviews!

Attorneys can say all kinds of great things about themselves on their websites, but what really matters is what other people are saying about them. What do their former clients have to say about their experiences? Was the attorney you’re considering hard working and helpful, or did their clients feel forgotten? Did they listen well and show up on time for every court date, or were they late and lazy and disrespectful?

Choosing the right attorney will make a huge difference to your case!

Join us next time, when we will look at a few other very important items you need to keep in mind when choosing the right attorney to help you protect your parenting rights and defense your family. Until then, if you need a skilled and experienced CPS defense attorney who can handle CPS then you need The Kronzek Firm. Call us today at 866-766-5245. An attorney is standing by to take your call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, even during the holidays.