 in the US may seem like a less severe crime, it can go on your criminal record, affecting your life.){kind=link}
Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a criminal offense in most states in the United States, although usually charged as a misdemeanor. While it may seem like a less severe crime, it can go on your criminal record, affecting your life.
According to Cohen and Winters – DUI lawyers, a DUI conviction can make your employer terminate your employment contract and may also make it difficult for you to land another job.
That is why you need a good DUI lawyer if you are ever charged with DUI. The lawyer’s job is to ensure the settlement or judgment favors you as much as possible by helping you build a strong defense.
Can you represent yourself in a DUI case?
People charged with DUI can represent themselves. This is known as acting as a pro se defendant.
First-time DUI offenders are typically offered plea deals with minimum penalties, depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
In theory, the plea deal is the same for all defendants, whether they are represented by a lawyer or not. Although, in such a case, appearing pro se might be a viable option to save money, the truth is that an experienced DUI lawyer may be able to get you a better deal. The standard offer is usually just a starting point.
DUI law is complex, so reading it up and researching it overnight will not cut it for you.
An experienced DUI attorney knows how to navigate the court system and argue your case effectively. They can identify potential defenses you might not be aware of and negotiate with the prosecutors for a more favorable outcome.
On the first assessment, representing yourself might seem like a fantastic way to save money upfront; however, the risk of a harsher sentence or missing out on crucial defenses could end up costing you more in the long run.
Tips to find a good DUI lawyer
It is easy to find a lawyer for your DUI case but can be challenging to find the right lawyer for your case. When hiring a DUI lawyer, you want a legal practitioner with years of experience in the field and a great track record of representing people with cases similar to yours.
Below are some tips for finding a good lawyer for your DUI case:
Search online
Most law firms today leverage the Internet to reach more prospective clients. This is why it is recommended that you start your search online. You can use search engines to locate DUI lawyers in your area.
Check the websites of law firms in your area and their social media accounts to assess their track records and ascertain if they will be able to handle your case.
Ask for recommendations
Family, friends, and colleagues are great sources of recommendations for good DUI lawyers.
They may have been in similar situations to yours before or know someone who has been in such a situation. They will likely recommend a DUI lawyer they have had a positive experience with.
Verify their qualifications and experience
To avoid hiring charlatans, it is better to search your state bar directories for qualified lawyers in your area.
Using the directory will help you know if the lawyer is indeed licensed to practice in the state and not suspended or disbarred.
Check the law firm’s websites to ascertain how long they have been practicing, and also read testimonials from previous clients.
Only hire a DUI lawyer who is qualified to represent you and has years of experience in the field.
Meet prospective lawyers in person
Schedule a consultation with the lawyers you are considering. Most DUI lawyers offer a free consultation. For those that charge a small fee, booking a consultation is money well spent.
Visit the lawyer with your police report and any other case documents. It is not mandatory to hire any lawyer you meet. The session is best for gauging whether the lawyer is capable of helping your case or not.
Consider costs
Be clear about your budget. This will help you make a better shortlist and aid your decision-making time.
Typically, DUI lawyers charge either per hour or a flat fee. Get the quotes upfront, and be sure to notify the law firm that you would like to know all costs, including hidden fees, upfront.
Be clear on expected results, but do not expect guarantees
Be certain about the kind of result you want from the case. Only hire a DUI lawyer who is interested in a similar result. The lawyer should be able to explain the potential risks and rewards of any proposed approach.
However, prepare your mind, as no lawyer can guarantee a specific outcome in your case.
10 questions to ask your DUI lawyer
- How many DUI cases have you handled?
- What percentage of your practice focuses on DUI defense?
- What is your success rate in getting charges reduced or dismissed?
- Can you provide examples of past cases with similar circumstances?
- What type of investigation will you perform in my DUI case?
- Based on the details of my DUI case, what kind of defense strategy do you expect to use?
- Based on your experience, what is the likely outcome of my DUI case?
- What steps can I take to improve the potential outcome of my DUI case?
- How will you keep me informed about the progress of my case?
- In addition to the criminal charges, will there be a separate DMV hearing regarding my driver’s license? If yes, will you represent me at the DMV hearing, or should I obtain a separate lawyer specializing in driver’s license issues?