You know the saying, “don’t drink and drive.” If you decide to drink, don’t drive.
Driving under the influence is a serious problem. Per the latest statistics, 29 people daily from a car crash involving a drunk driver. Drunk drivers can face jail time.
Despite the consequences, people still decide to take the wheel when they are drunk. Drunk drivers have to pay for their irresponsible choice when they get a DUI.
For those who want to fight their DUI charge, there is the option of hiring a DUI defense lawyer.
If you are looking for one, this guide is for you. It will tell you how to find the best DUI defense lawyer.
Ask Your Friends and Family for a Referral
A good way to start your search for the best DUI defense lawyer is to ask your friends and family. Your friends or a family member may know a lawyer who specializes in DUIs. Ask friends who you trust as this is a sensitive matter.
The chances are that they may know someone else who knows a DUI defense lawyer. If you get the names of different lawyers, make a list. Then take time to research each lawyer.
Do Your Research
If your friends or loved ones could not refer you to a DUI defense lawyer, it would be up to you to find one.
You can start your research by doing a Google search. With Google, you can conduct a general search of DUI lawyers who are near your community.
Also, consider visiting the National College For DUI Defense website. This website allows users to find a DUI attorney by putting in their zip code.
Go to the law firm’s website. On the website, there will be information that can help you narrow down your choices.
Ask for a Free DUI Case Consultation
Did you know that lawyers can do a free DUI case consultation? Take this opportunity. The lawyer will go over your case and determine if it’s a case that is worth taking to court.
Take the time to speak with the lawyer. This will serve as a good opportunity to assess the lawyer’s personality. It matters a lot to have a DUI defense lawyer on your side who you’re able to get along with.
Communication is key in the lawyer-client relationship. If you feel the lawyer doesn’t seem interested in your case, chances are this lawyer won’t be the best one for you.
Before going to the free DUI case consultation, consider making a list of questions to ask the lawyer. Ask the lawyer if he or she belongs to any professional organizations.
Also, ask about the familiarity with the law and science related to alcohol breath testing. This knowledge is critical to winning a DUI case as the lawyer can fight the DUI charge.
Hire a DUI Defense Lawyer with Experience
You want to have the best possible outcome in your DUI case. This is why the DUI defense lawyer you hire needs to have the qualifications for the job.
Keep in mind that there are general practitioners, and there are lawyers who only take on specific cases. Find a lawyer who specializes in DUI defense. The DUI defense lawyer you hire should know this practice area.
It’s also helpful to know the level of experience the lawyer has. Hire a lawyer with years of experience. This type of lawyer is a seasoned one who has seen it all and knows a thing or two.
Take the time to ask how many cases the lawyer has taken over the years. This information will give you a pretty good idea about the kind of lawyer who may end up taking your DUI case.
Ask About Availability
The lawyer who you’ll hire will need to have time to work on your case. You want to have someone who can represent you like the most important person in the world.
Your DUI case is important. The DUI lawyer who represents you will need to be available for you. Yes, a lawyer can’t be on-call 24-hour hours a day, but the lawyer’s staff should be available 24/7.
Clients must be able to contact someone if they have any questions or concerns. The last thing you need is to have the person representing you not be there for you when you need him or her the most.
Consider the Cost of Legal Representation
One of the most important factors to consider when looking for a DUI attorney is the cost of legal representation. Every DUI case is different, so that fees can vary.
Ask what’s included in the fee. Also, ask if there’s a payment plan available. Once the lawyer gives you the cost, ask for it to be in writing.
As is it, you’re already in hot water, so it may be wise to spare no expense to get the best DUI defense lawyer.
If you have been arrested for drinking and driving, you’ll need to hire a DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Hire the Best DUI Defense Lawyer
Did you get charged with a DUI? Don’t worry; it still may not be the end of the world for you. If you have gotten a DUI, you’ll need to find the best DUI defense lawyer.
Use these tips to help you find the best DUI defense lawyer in your town.
For more interesting topics to read, explore the rest of our legal blog!