If you find yourself being charged with a DUI, get a lawyer. It’s the best way to handle the situation. Trying to represent yourself in court might only land you in bigger trouble. Find someone with the legal expertise and experience to help you. Here are top tips on how to find one.
Be Picky
Do your homework. Don’t just go online for the “DUI lawyer near me” and pick the names that you come across. Do a bit of research. Yes, you’re in a hurry. You only have 30 days to appeal the arrest. But you also need to be smart about choosing a lawyer. Strike a balance between picking one in a hurry and finding someone with the skills to help you.
Look for Experience
Experience is a common indication that you’re hiring the right lawyer for the job. Make sure you go over the attorney’s years of experience. Also, specialization matters. Someone who’s spent years dealing with DUI charges is in an excellent position to help you.
Read Reviews
Find out what other clients are saying about the lawyer. Are they happy about the outcome? What are their complaints? What issues did they encounter? Being aware of these things will help you steer clear of bad options.
Do an Interview
When you have a short list of names, start calling them up. Schedule an interview. Given the circumstances, it’s a good idea to hold that interview through video. Credentials look good on paper but face-to-face interaction can tell you so much more about the person, especially whether they’re the right fit with the case or not.
Beware of Signs
A good lawyer asks you about everything you know regarding the incident. If the lawyer isn’t asking questions or isn’t concerned much about what you think, that’s a red flag. Also, if the lawyer doesn’t seem good at communicating with you, if you are uncomfortable with the lawyer in any way, then those are additional red flags. Drop this one and look for other lawyers to help you. Find someone you’re comfortable with.
Ask About the Fees
One of the first things you need to understand are the fees. How does the lawyer charge you for their services? Are there specific legal tasks that the lawyer charges a certain amount for? Will you get charged by the hour? Sort out these details before you hire Business Name to help you with your DUI charge.
