If you're stressed out by getting charged with a DUI, hiring a DUI lawyer shouldn't add to your stress; it should relieve it. Follow these suggestions for finding the right pro to help. Before all else, make sure the lawyer is an experienced criminal defender who specializes in DUIs. You want someone who knows the changing details of DUI law to represent you. For many people, a DUI is the only time in their lives they may face criminal charges. It pays to work with an experienced pro. While hiring a DUI lawyer may be just one of many costs you'll be facing, working with a great DUI lawyer could save you money, reduce your criminal charges, and/or ease the process overall.
The next step is to read reviews online from former clients. Find someone who consistently has happy customers and successful outcomes with cases like yours. Be sure to confirm that your DUI attorney is in good legal standing in the community, and research how long they have practiced.
Ashelee Weeks of Weeks Law recommends you find someone that you can connect with on some level. Weeks says it's important to find an attorney with whom you can develop a relationship of trust, since you will be dealing with a very emotional and difficult situation. Your attorney should have experience and knowledge of the latest laws, of course, but should also be attentive and genuinely interested in helping you. You can determine this through your initial phone conversations or during a free consultation where they consider taking your case.
Many DUI lawyers offer a free consultation to learn about your case, which may take place via phone or in person. Be prepared with your police report and any additional information you believe is pertinent to your case. Be honest with the DUI lawyer during your consultation. If they know all the facts, they will be better able to give you a realistic idea of the costs you face and whether they can help you.
During the initial consultation, discuss payment. Many DUI lawyers have flat rates for DUI cases, especially for first-time offenders. Ask for a written document that outlines costs and what deliverables they will provide. Some DUI lawyers include assistance with administrative per se in their DUI case fees, while others may charge extra. In almost all cases, if your DUI charge goes to trial instead of being settled out of court, there will be additional costs to account for the lawyer's research, trial prep and litigation services. Above all else, don't hesitate to ask your DUI lawyer questions about how they can help you and to describe their experience.