You were drinking late into the night. You were even the last patron at the restaurant. As you stumble out the front door, you smack into the glass doors and consequently slam your face into the doors.
Whether or not you think your drunk driving arrest was unfair, you need a legal advocate. So how do you find a great attorney?
Don’t worry. No matter where you are, here’s what you need to know about choosing the best lawyer for your DUI case.
Read on!
Assessing Your Needs for Representation
When choosing the right lawyer for your investigation, the best first step is to assess your legal needs. You should also determine which lawyer can best meet those needs.
Consider whether you need a lawyer knowledgeable in the technical aspects of DUI law and the nature of your DUI charge. You should also consider whether you wish to have an experienced lawyer with a proven record of success in DUI cases. Also, consider whether you are looking for a lawyer readily accessible for face-to-face meetings.
Suppose you’re facing criminal charges on top of your DUI case because you caused an accident that resulted in someone sustaining severe injuries. In that case, you may need a lawyer who can handle both cases successfully. Most criminal defense lawyers can handle DUI cases, but you may need to know their knowledge of DUI laws since they can be quite complex and specialized.
You may also check this court system if you reside in Alabama to get the best options.
Determining an Experienced Attorney Is Best
When selecting an attorney for a DUI case, you should prioritize experience. An experienced attorney will likely use the greatest variety of strategies throughout your case. The attorney will already have a good sense of which strategies will work best in your circumstance.
They will also have greater knowledge of the following:
- local laws
- court procedures
- judges
Additionally, an experienced attorney will better understand any deals or agreements that can or should be reached with the prosecution. Whenever possible, aim to hire lawyers who practice exclusively in the area of drunk driving.
Their commitment and focus on this specialized field mean they are up to date with the latest laws in this area. Ask potential attorneys about the type and number of DUI cases they have handled in the past and any notable successes.
In addition, choosing a drunk driving attorney who communicates well should be prioritized. They should be capable of explaining in detail everything you need to know about your case, and in a manner you can understand. And that means not impressing you with too much legal jargon. Furthermore, they should be able to respond promptly to your questions and concerns, alleviating your stress and worry.
Research Your State’s Bar Association & DUI Law
When selecting a lawyer for a DUI case, it is important to research your state’s bar association and DUI law. Most lawyers specialize in one type of law, making it important to find a lawyer experienced in DUI cases.
Your state’s bar association website or the National Collegial of DUI defense website can provide listings of specialized DUI lawyers. Additionally, many states have resources through criminal defense bar associations and public defender offices.
Many law school websites provide alumni lists; this can help find lawyers affiliated with well-known law schools. Additionally, conducting an online search to find online reviews from previous clients can help make a decision.
Lastly, checking to ensure the lawyer is in good standing with their state’s bar association is essential when selecting a lawyer for your DUI case.
Understand the Lawyer’s Fee Structure
When selecting a lawyer for your DUI case, you should review the lawyer’s fee structure carefully. Consider the type of representation you need and whether you can afford the lawyer’s fee.
There are many types of lawyer fee structures, including hourly, flat, contingency, retainer, and hybrid fees. It’d help if you clarify with your lawyer how they charge so it’ll be clear from the get-go. This can help you avoid any misunderstandings that may arise when the court concludes your case.
Obtain a written fee agreement to ensure that you understand the terms and costs associated with the legal services that the lawyer provides. Ensure that the agreement outlines precisely what the lawyer will do, how much the fee is, and other court and case expenses.
Ask questions if you don’t understand something in the fee agreement so that it is clear. Finally, always seek out the most reputable lawyers and compare different pricing packages and services to ensure you get the best value for your money.
Seeking Referrals from Other Professionals
When seeking a lawyer to defend you in your DUI case, referrals from other professionals can be a helpful starting point. Speak with friends, family, coworkers, or business associates who may have had a DUI case and had successful outcomes.
When researching each potential lawyer, personal recommendations are invaluable. Contact any state or local bar association—or the American Bar Association—for referrals to qualified DUI attorneys.
Ask other professionals, such as your family physician or accountant, for recommendations on DUI lawyers whom they trust.
Personal injury lawyers and former clients of DUI attorneys are terrific sources of information on lawyers’ reputations, including how well they advocate for their clients in DUI cases. Obtaining referrals from these sources will help you choose the right lawyer for your DUI case.
Anticipating the Timetable of Your Case
When it comes to selecting the right lawyer for your DUI case, it is important to take the time to research and choose one who understands the system and the laws surrounding DUI cases.
It is important to understand the timetable of your case, so you can get help from a lawyer who is in tune with the nuances of the law and the process. Ask questions about past successes and failures and seek references from former clients.
It is also helpful to speak directly with your lawyer to understand how the lawyer approaches DUI cases and how long you anticipate the case to take to resolve. Make sure the lawyer you choose is experienced and familiar with DUI defense and that they can explain the steps that will be taken from the arraignment through trial.
This will help you feel secure knowing that the lawyer ensures your rights are respected throughout the process.
Win Your DUI Case Now
Choosing the right lawyer for your DUI case is an important decision. It’s essential to select the right attorney who is experienced, knowledgeable and has a positive track record.
Don’t forget to read their reviews and ask friends, associates, and family members for their recommendations.
It’s best to take the time to choose a lawyer who can help ensure your legal rights are protected at each stage of the process. Remember, this is your future at stake, and you must entrust your legal battle to someone you’re confident will fight for you.
With the right lawyer, you can assure yourself good representation, the best chance at a good outcome, and the potential to minimize the impact of DUI charges. Contact an experienced DUI lawyer today to see how they can assist you.
