Right, but the most expensive lawyer won't necessarily get him a better result than someone who charges much less. You just want to avoid the schlocks. I think reputation is EVERYTHING--and I mean reputation among the prosecution/criminal bar, not who has the "biggest name." If this relative was a PD, I'm sure he can find out. And remember, too, he can change lawyers at any time (though the sooner the better--requests for change of attorneys are frowned upon when a trial is imminent--it's a common delay tactic).