You need a criminal lawyer if your case involves a state or federal crime.  The case could involve being accused, suspected or charged with a crime.  Or it might involve questions of sentencing, post-conviction relief, parole or probation.  Issues like plea bargaining, clemency, search and seizure, competence to stand trial and police interrogation are all issues for a criminal attorney. A board-certified criminal lawyer has special competence and knowledge of a client’s rights, culpability, defenses, and remedies in state and federal criminal courts.  In order to become board certified in criminal law, the attorney has proven expertise in criminal trial proceedings from the preliminary charges through investigation, presentation of evidence, conviction and sentencing and post-trial appeals.