Getting involved in a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) case can create a rather unpleasant scenario for you. When you are involved in this complicated case, the only person who will be able to get you out of this mess is an experienced DUI attorney. When you are charged for DUI, you will be required to pay an exorbitant amount for the fine. You will also be required to attend training programs, Alcoholics Anonymous awareness sessions, mandatory treatments, and more, all of which can cost you a bombshell.
If the accident has resulted in death or death, you too could be incarcerated. Therefore, being charged with a DUI case can be quite scary and upsetting at the same time. This is why choosing the right criminal defense attorney is very important. Here are some points to keep in mind when choosing one:
1. Begin the initial discussion with experienced potential attorneys.
Check out potential DUI attorneys in your area by consulting local references. Contact your friends who have previously used the services of a DUI attorney for good leads. You can also check with groups like the Bar Association of your respective state, the Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers in your area, and the like. Pick a pool of potential attorneys from these and have personal conversations with them to understand whether they have represented any DUI / DWI cases before in court, their approach to work, success rate, fees, and their overall professionalism and experience.
two. Local experience
Choose an attorney who has extensive knowledge of local laws and regulations. You should be licensed to operate in your state. In this way, your lawyer will be available whenever the judge announces the hearing date for your case. Also, if your DUI lawyer is quite famous and has a good reputation in your area, it can work to your advantage and help you get a reduced fine or sentence.
3. Honesty and transparency
When you are involved in DUI or DWI cases, you should know that the chances of getting out of it unscathed (emotionally and financially) are almost impossible. Therefore, choose an attorney who is quite honest about your case and who will keep you prepared about the huge financial losses you would have to experience at the end of the case. Fatal accidents guarantee you a jail sentence, and your attorney must be brutally honest with you about it, too. Stay away from attorneys who promise to get you out of the DUI case without a scratch.
Four. Payment terms
DUI attorneys charge you a hefty sum, but this is because they try to minimize your punishment and sentence as much as they can. Therefore, choose a DUI attorney, who clearly explains your payment terms correctly during the first discussion, the fees you expect them at, and the preferred mode of payment. Get these terms in writing, so you don’t have to deal with unpleasant surprises in the form of hidden charges later on.