Many people often believe that driving while intoxicated is just a traffic offense and not a big deal. However, this isn’t true. Sitting behind the wheels of any vehicle in an inebriated state and driving is a grievous criminal offense. Although some drivers don’t usually show any signs of being drunk, it does not imply it becomes less risky.
A DUI arrest indeed is a stressful event for any person. You might face bad outcomes that you could have easily avoided in the first place with the support of an attorney. Some of these outcomes may be paying hefty fines, losing driving privileges, and serving jail time.
How would you defend yourself and find employment in the future with a criminal record? Therefore, never deal with the consequences of driving while intoxicated case without legal support and guidance. Since the facts and figures for each case are different, it is better to hire an criminal lawyers dandenong to help you with the DUI charge.
Below are some of the tips that you should take into account while hiring a DUI lawyer:
- Check the Background and Expertise
Many lawyers work in different fields and fight for different categories of cases. DUI laws can be complex; make sure to hire an attorney that can win your case. Since the other party might also come up with a lawyer for DUI victims, your lawyer must have the best knowledge and expertise. Don’t go for the ones that take occasional criminal cases. Check the background and see how many criminal cases your selected lawyer has served.
- Meet the Potential Attorneys In-Person
After conducting thorough research and narrowing down the list, schedule meetups with the potential attorneys. An in-person meeting is a perfect way to develop mutual understanding and decide which attorney best suits your needs. However, during the consultation, you need to be straightforward and upfront about your case. Don’t shy away and try to mention all the facts about the accident. The last thing you want is to surprise the court and your attorney by confessing at the very last moment.
Also, don’t forget to discuss with the attorney the strategy of your case. Ask questions such as:
- Will somebody else works on your case?
- Will you make a plea for guilt or proceed with the trial?
- How frequently can you contact the lawyer for updates on the issue?
- Determine the Fees
DUI cases can become complex and expensive if the officials arrest you. It can also cause the cancellation of your driving license and an increase in insurance costs. Hiring a lawyer to deal with all these complexities is not an easy feat. It would cause a significant dent in your pocket.
Ask the fee structure before hiring a lawyer so that you can have an accurate picture of what to expect and what not to expect. Determine whether the attorney would be charging a per-hour fee or flat fee? Be clear about your budget and ask beforehand if the attorney is willing to work on your limited budget.
- Assess the Relation with Courts and Prosecutors
Although determining expertise and background is critical before hiring a lawyer, you cannot oversee the relationship with other prosecutors and courts. Seeking an answer to this question can tell you a lot about your lawyer and make your decision easier. If the lawyer doesn’t play well in the court or does not have good relations with prosecutors and judges, hiring that lawyer might not be wise. You may experience prejudice, and your lawyer might not be able to win your case. Reasons why you should hire an attorney that maintains a strong relationship with other people in the court are:
- A good relationship with the court and prosecutors portrays the professionalism of a lawyer.
- Sometimes lawyers negotiate with other prosecutors to lower the charges or dismiss the issue altogether.
Final Words
If you are guilty of the crime, you are worthy of a second chance, and if you are innocent, you deserve a fair trial. And this would only be possible when you have the dedicated support of a defense attorney. A competent and skilled DUI lawyer can help you throughout the criminal prosecution in so many ways. You shouldn’t hire an attorney who only takes you through the plea deal. It is imperative to look out for the one that would go to the lengths to achieve the best solution possible.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
Speak Your Mind