If you have never hired a lawyer before, you might not know where to start looking for a DUI attorney. Alternatively, if you have hired a lawyer before but were unhappy with your representation, you might not know how to find one who better meets your needs.
In either case, finding a DUI attorney can be more complicated than calling the number on the biggest ad in the phone book or the first website in your online search results for “DUI attorney near me.” Finding an attorney to represent you in a DUI case requires careful consideration of your needs and the attorney’s qualifications.
You have many options for searching for a criminal defense lawyer. Examples include:
As you meet with lawyers to represent you in your DUI case, you should consider the following:
Discussions between you and your lawyer are covered by attorney-client confidentiality. This means you can have full and honest conversations about what happened and what your options are for dealing with it.
That said, you should choose a lawyer you are comfortable talking to, listens to you, and explains your options in a way you understand.
Since every case is different, your lawyer needs to understand your unique situation and advocate the best possible result for you.
For example, for a DUI case, you might feel that you need alcohol or drug treatment to turn your life around. A lawyer who understands your situation can advocate for the outcome that gets you the help you need.
This can make the difference between getting an outcome you are satisfied with and one that is disastrous. Much of a DUI attorney’s time is spent negotiating with prosecutors and preparing for trial. Having direct experience in what works and what does not will help you chart the course of your defense.
To advocate for your position, your lawyer must know the law. While you might have one of those rare open-and-shut cases, you are more likely to have nuances in your case that can be used to convince a prosecutor to drop the charges or a jury to acquit.
Attorneys sometimes get overwhelmed with work. When you search for a DUI attorney, make sure the attorney has the time to devote to your case.
A private DUI attorney will cost money. Make sure your attorney is willing to work out a payment arrangement that will fit your budget.
Being arrested can be a life-changing event. While every case is different, a conviction for DUI can lead to jail time, a substantial fine, lengthy probation, and suspension of your driver’s license.
A DUI attorney can present your options so you can decide how to proceed with your case. Once you have decided, your DUI attorney can help you navigate the court system to help you get an acceptable outcome.
Contact us for a free initial consultation. I have over 25 years of experience as both a DUI attorney and a chief assistant prosecutor and use my experiences to navigate cases to a successful resolution.
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