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A DUI charge can cause stiff consequences like a jail sentence, so it should be taken seriously. If you are arrested for a DUI, ensure that you get legal representation swiftly to increase your chances of getting through it with minimal consequences and have someone who knows the court system on your side when you face the judge. Since the judge, law enforcement officers, and prosecutors are familiar with legal processes, facing the court alone can be quite scary, particularly if you do not have legal expertise. When hiring a DUI lawyer, ask them these questions.
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What is Your Law Experience and Background?
Before putting your fate in the hands of a DUI attorney, you must inquire about the experience they have handling cases like yours and their track record. Find out if they specialize in DUI cases, the number of cases they have dealt with, and their years of experience. You should find the number of the cases that went to trial, dismissed, won, or negotiated to wet recklessness. You should also find out whether they are familiar with the prosecutor handling your case.
Should We Go To Trial?
Based on your case’s specifics, you may have a better chance of the charges being thrown out or dismissed at trial. Your attorney will be able to give you an informed opinion once they review your case, including the advantages and disadvantages of getting a plea deal, a court battle, or an alternative disposition.
What Are Fees and Payment Do You Charge?
Finding out how much the attorney will charge you ensures that you do not get into a situation you cannot afford. Therefore, before settling on a particular lawyer, ask whether they will bill you for travel expenses or time, extra fees like witness fees, and they charge per hour or based on a predictable block fee calculation. You should also find out if they offer a payment plan and the payment methods they accept.
What Special Training and Certification Do You Have?
Some DUI attorneys have special training to help them do their job more efficiently. They include certification from DUI defense organizations like the National College for DUI Defense, Instructor Standardized Field Sobriety or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Student courses, Breathalyzer and blood test, and alcohol toxicology. A lawyer with any or all of the special training may be better equipped to handle your case.
What Strategy Are You Likely To Use In The Case?
An experienced DUI attorney will come with a defense plan that considers every aspect of the case. For example, your lawyer will likely use the weaknesses in the case, like having specific evidence from being admissible in court. A well-thought-out defense strategy increases your chances of getting reduced penalties or dismissal. Asking your lawyer about the plan they intend to use gives you an understanding of what to expect.
What Should I Do To Increase The Chances Of A Desirable Outcome?
The experience of dealing with DUI cases puts your attorney in a better spot to advise you on what to do to get a better outcome from the case. This includes minimizing or avoiding taking alcohol, especially putting yourself in a situation that may get you arrested for another DUI or any other offense. You should also demonstrate that you have responsibilities that will suffer if you get incarcerated or your driving privileges suspended.
A DUI case can be quite complicated, so you need an attorney who will put in the time, care about your case and work to get you the best possible result. Asking your attorney questions helps your gauge their expertise, if they are a good fit, and give them a chance to know you.
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