What To Look for When Hiring A DUI Lawyer

It's very common for people arrested on a DUI charge are too scared or shamed to hire a lawyer. But it's so crucial to realize how much a DUI lawyer can significantly sway the results of your case. So, if and when you should decide to hire a DUI lawyer, many different things need to be deliberated in finding the right one.

First off, it is really important to find a lawyer who specializes in DUI law. In fact, it's crucial to find a lawyer who knows DUI laws well within the state in which you were convicted. Sometimes a lawyer who handles divorce, DUI, bankruptcy, etc could be a good choice, but because DUI law is a rapidly changing and extensive area of law, someone who specializes specifically in DUI is almost always the best choice.

It is worthwhile to meet with at least two different lawyers before making your decision. If you schedule an initial meeting to exchange generic information very few lawyers should charge you at all. Make sure the lawyer you chose has extensive experience all around as well as a proficiency in DUI law. Another important aspect in choosing the best lawyer for you is finding someone who makes you feel comfortable in that initial face to face meeting; this is why initial phone calls to exchange information are not always best. Also it is good to take into account that the most colorful ad in the yellow pages does not always mean that it's the best lawyer offered. It only means that that lawyer has paid the most to have the largest ad. Many times it is helpful to not to look at the yellow pages at all. Instead, check online or at your local library for a copy of a book called the Martindale Hubbel law directory. This directory lists every lawyer in the U.S. as well as their specialties.

Before arriving at your lawyer’s office for your first meeting, it’s good to create a list of some questions to ask each lawyer. Each lawyer's answers to these questions will greatly aide in making your final decision. Some good questions to ask are:

* Will there be another person here working my case or are you specifically going to be my lawyer?

o This is a really essential question to remember because you may feel completely comfortable with one lawyer and then find out he won't even be your primary lawyer.

* What exactly do you charge and can you give me some estimates as to the most I might have to pay and how much I’ll pay upfront?

o It's important to remember that a number of DUI Lawyers simply charge a flat fee even if your case doesn’t go to trial while others can charge hourly.

o Some may vary their fee structure so as to split the process into phases. The best thing to do is ask for an exact process and fee structure.

* Are there court costs and filing fees aside from attorney fees that I might be held accountable for?

* Approximately how many of your cases involve DUI or impaired driver cases?

o Don’t forget that you want an attorney who handles at the very least 50% DUI cases in the state in which you were convicted.



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