Finding a DUI Lawyer
Finding the right DUI attorney is one of the most important steps that you will take after being arrested for drunk driving. A lawyer that handles many DUI cases will have a better idea of what steps need to be done to save your drivers license, lessen your penalties, and keep you out of jail. A DUI is a very serious charge and it will not take care of itself.
The courts and laws have become very complex, and it can be very difficult to find your way through the system without special training. Even when judges are understanding, trying to represent yourself can cause undue delay in the resolution of your case, and even small procedural errors can be very damaging to the outcome of a case. In most cases, the best way to protect yourself is to hire the right attorney.
Attorneys by State
Meeting an Attorney
 Before your meeting, you should ask if there is a fee for an initial consultation. If there is, you will be obligated to pay that fee even if you do not hire the attorney. However, many lawyers offer a free consultation, take this opportunity to interview the attorney, ask questions, and get a feel on how he/she likes to handle DUI cases. Make sure that your ideas and the attorneys ideas are the same. You have every right to take some time to think before you hire the attorney, and you have every right to decide not to hire the attorney. Hiring an attorney is a big step, and you should shopping around. Remember, they work for you.
Here are a few questions that you might want to ask:
- What are your areas of specialization?
- Do you offer a free initial consultation?
- Have you handled cases like mine before? How many? What was the outcome?
- Will you be the only attorney who works on the case? If not, who else will work on it?
- How long will it take for this case to be resolved?
- How much will my case cost?
- Will you keep me informed about the progress of my case, and how?
- Can I reach you after hours, if I have an emergency?
- How often do you go to trial?
- If I am not happy with a settlement offer, and you want to settle, will you go to court anyway?
- If I am happy with the offer, but you think we can win more at trial, will you follow my wishes?
After Hiring an Attorney
Ask for a Written Retainer
This is the best way to ensure that your rights are protected. Don't feel that you have to sign the agreement on the spot -- take the time to read it first, and ask questions about it. If you are looking at paying thousands of dollars in fees, you may even wish to have the agreement reviewed by another attorney before signing it. The retainer agreement should accurately describe the legal issues for which the attorney will represent you, the amount that you will pay the attorney, and any other terms you discuss.
If You Decide You Don't Like the Attorney
The attorney works for you. You have the right to terminate your relationship with an attorney. Please note, however, that you must still pay the attorney for the services he has performed for you. If the attorney was representing you on a "contingent fee" basis, the attorney may be entitled to a portion of the proceeds of your case once it has been resolved.
Usually, before you fire your attorney, you will want to first talk to a different attorney. Sometimes the new attorney will tell you to try to work out your problems with your attorney. If you choose to hire the new attorney, the new attorney should be willing to work out the details relating to any fees you may owe to your prior attorney.
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