Tips On Finding A DUI Attorney?

Have you been charged with a DUI?  If you have, you will need to find a DUI attorney to represent you in court. Hiring a good DUI attorney can help you save your license from being taken away.  Not only that, but keeping a DUI off your record is important.  Having a record can cause your insurance to cost to go up, risks your reputation and job prospects.  Because there is so much at stake, hiring the right DUI attorney is very important.

Knowing what to look for in a a DUI attorney is crucial to picking one.  To help you pick a DUI attorney we have put together some important tips.

DUI Experience

Just like doctors, lawyers specialize in an area.  Make sure that you look for lawyers who specialize in DUI cases.  You will most likely look for a lawyer who specializes in criminal law with a sub-specialty in DUI’s.  Also, make sure you look for a lawyer in the state you received your DUI.  Laws vary in different states.  You want someone who is knowledgeable in the state you need representation.

Recommendations

It is a good idea to ask friends and family members for recommendations.  They may have had to use a DUI lawyer before or they may have connections.  This is also a good idea because they may tell you of a lawyer that they did not have a good experience with.

Testimonials

Make sure to ask the lawyer for testimonials from previous clients.  You can also do a google search to find testimonials.  This can tell you a lot about the process of working with an attorney and if you will be a good fit with them.

Size Of Firm

The size of a firm and how big their case load is important to understand.  This can help you understand how much time the firm will spend on your case.  A bigger firm doesn’t always mean you will get the most attention.  A small firm with a small caseload can offer specialized attention to their clients.

Website

Most DUI lawyers have a website.  It is important to read through the website to get to know the lawyer and the services they provide.  This can also help with learning about their academic background and professional affiliations.

Relationships With Prosecutors

It is important to understand the relationship the DUI lawyer has with prosecutors.  It is always good if there is a positive relationship between the two.  If there is a bad relationship, the prosecutor might not think highly of their clients as well.

Interview The DUI Lawyer

It is a good idea to have a sit down with the lawyers your are considering.  Come armed with all the questions you want to ask.  These questions will help you understand if you the lawyer is the right fit for you.

Fees

Always make sure you understand the lawyers fees.  Lawyers are expensive and you need to make sure that you can pay them.

Comfort

It is important to feel comfortable with the lawyer that you pick.  You may pick a lawyer that is excellent all the way around, but you don’t feel comfortable with them.  Or you might find a lawyer that you are comfortable with, but does not have good experience.  Of course the best situation is finding a lawyer that you are comfortable with and has good experience.

Don’t Rush A Decision

You may think that you should instantly follow your gut decision when you meet a lawyer you like and hire them. Do not do this!  There is no rush. Go home and think over your decision for a day.

Case Assessment

When you meet with your prospective lawyers, tell them the details of your case in full.  This will help the lawyer understand your case and help them understand if it is something they can handle.

Final Thought

Finding the right DUI attorney is important.  It can make the difference of handing in your drivers license and having a record to being able to walk away with your license and no record.  It is important to do your due diligence.  With the help of the tips above, you should be well equipped to finding the right lawyer.