The #1 Mistake People Make When Looking for a Criminal Defense Lawyer on Google”
If you’re facing criminal charges or know someone who is, chances are your first instinct is to open up Google and search for a criminal defense lawyer. And why wouldn’t you? It’s fast, easy, and gives you immediate access to dozens—maybe even hundreds—of local options.
But here’s the problem: most people unknowingly make one critical mistake during this search, and it can cost them their freedom, their record, and even their future.
So, what’s the #1 mistake people make when searching for a criminal defense attorney online?
Let’s dive into it—and more importantly, show you how to avoid it.

❌ Mistake #1: Choosing a Lawyer Based on Advertising Alone
You know the drill—you Google “Criminal Lawyer near me” and the top few results are all paid ads. They look professional, the websites are polished, and they promise aggressive representation or “the best defense possible.”
It’s tempting to click, call, and commit.
But here’s the truth: just because a firm pays to be at the top of Google doesn’t mean they’re the right choice for your case.
Too many people make the mistake of hiring the first law firm they see—without checking whether that attorney actually specializes in the kind of legal battle they’re facing.
🔍 Not All Criminal Lawyers Are Equal
Think about it. Would you hire a general physician to perform heart surgery? Of course not.
So why hire a general lawyer to defend you against a serious criminal charge?
Whether you’re facing charges for:
- DUI or DUI with drugs
- Domestic violence
- Sex crimes
- Drug possession or trafficking
- Theft or burglary
…you need a criminal defense lawyer who not only knows the law but also knows how to navigate your type of case specifically.
At My Rights Law – Criminal, DUI, and Injury Lawyers, we focus entirely on protecting clients from life-altering criminal and injury-related cases. We’re not a “do-it-all” law firm—we’re a do-it-right law firm.
🔄 The Right Lawyer Does More Than Just Show Up
A top-notch DUI defense lawyer doesn’t just accept your case and negotiate a plea deal. They investigate every detail, challenge evidence, negotiate fiercely, and—if necessary—go to trial with a strategy designed to win.
The same goes for hiring a:
- Sex crimes lawyer who understands the sensitive nature of the accusation and knows how to protect your reputation.
- Domestic violence defense lawyer who can defend you against exaggerated or false claims.
- Drug crimes attorney who knows how to challenge unlawful searches or lab testing.
- Theft attorney who can argue for dropped or reduced charges based on intent or evidence.
These aren’t just legal battles—they’re battles for your name, your family, and your freedom.
🧭 How to Find the Right Criminal Defense Attorney on Google
So, how do you avoid the most common mistake and find the best fit for your legal needs?
Here are a few expert tips:
✅ 1. Be Specific in Your Search
Instead of searching “Criminal Lawyer,” try:
- “DUI Attorney in Santa Ana
- “Drug Crimes Lawyer with experience in felony cases”
- “Domestic Violence Attorney with courtroom experience”
Specific keywords lead to more relevant, targeted results.
✅ 2. Dig Deeper Than the Ads
Scroll past the ads. Look for law firms with detailed websites that explain their areas of focus. Are they talking about criminal defense specifically, or do they list it alongside ten other practice areas?
You want a legal team that lives and breathes criminal law—not one that occasionally dabbles in it.
✅ 3. Check Their Client Reviews & Case Results
A reputable firm should have reviews that go beyond “They were nice.” Look for real stories about real outcomes—cases dismissed, charges reduced, or lives turned around.
At My Rights Law, we’ve helped thousands of people across California walk away from serious charges with their dignity and future intact.
🚨 Bonus Tip: Look Beyond Criminal Law If Your Case Involves Injuries
What if your criminal case stems from a car crash, a bar fight, or an accident involving injuries?
That’s where our experience as both personal injury lawyers and criminal defense attorneys becomes your secret weapon.
We handle cases involving:
- Car accidents
- Truck crashes
- Motorcycle accidents
- Police misconduct or excessive force
So if your case includes both legal charges and physical injury, we can protect your rights on both fronts—something most law firms simply can’t offer.
🛑 Don’t Let Google Steer You Wrong—Let’s Talk
Choosing the right criminal defense attorney is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. Don’t leave it up to an algorithm. Take the time to find a team that understands your case, your concerns, and your goals.
At My Rights Law, we’ve built our firm on real relationships, honest results, and fierce advocacy. Whether you’re searching for a drunk driving lawyer, a domestic violence lawyer, a theft attorney, or a strategic drug crimes lawyer, we’re ready to step in and defend your rights.
📞 Contact us now for a free, confidential consultation. Your future is too important to trust to a search engine.