We carry to be prepared, and hope to never have a day come where we need to use our firearms. This is a great mindset, but the reality is that some of us will indeed use our firearms in a self defense situation. We’re prepared for this, but are we prepared for what happens next?
Many that carry each day do not think about the aftermath of a self defense shooting. The hectic nature immediately following a shooting is enough to rattle the strongest people you know. It can also go on for months, if not years. The last thing on your mind in this situation should be “Oh crap, I need a lawyer that’s versed in firearm laws and self defense laws that can represent me”.
Don’t end up being this person. Find a lawyer before you may need one.
Choosing a lawyer versed in these categories can be a process, but it is a good idea to start the search now. Start calling a few local law offices or search the internet to see who is in your area. If you call a firm that doesn’t excel in this category, chances are they can lead you in the right direction.
Alternatively, and an even better option, is to ask people in the industry. Talk to a local firearms instructor to see if they can refer you to a lawyer in the area. If that doesn’t work out, ask around at a local gun shop to see if anyone can point you in the right direction. You can even call the NRA to get a list of lawyers in your area that have experience with self-defense cases.
Make the calls, and sit down with the lawyers to discuss what they’ve done in the past and what they have to offer you. After all, they may be getting you out of jail one day. Just like choosing a doctor, you want to be confident in your choice.
Ask them how many self-defense cases they’ve been apart of. See what their track record is. Find out of this is a person that you feel confident and secure with. If it’s 2am and you have a dead intruder in your kitchen, will you feel like you’re in safe hands when you call this lawyer right after a self-defense shooting?
It’s ok to take your time when choosing a lawyer to possibly represent you in the future, but start the process now. Even if you don’t carry yet and have a pending concealed carry application, start this process of finding a lawyer while you wait for your permit.
You prepare with everything else in your life; don’t forget this important step.
