A DUI Conviction can ruin your life. You will be facing a driver’s license suspension, mandatory minimum sentences, employment disqualifications, and more. In addition, a DUI conviction will be documented on your permanent criminal record and background check. There are many more reasons for you to hire a DUI lawyer immediately after your arrest. Among the many life-changing consequences you are facing, the most urgent of them include deadlines to act immediately after your arrest. Contact our office today to discuss your options, and review these things you need to know before you hire a DUI lawyer.
Number 1: Speak with more than one lawyer before signing a retainer agreement.
Lawyers have different strategies and different personalities that you should know and understand before you hire a DUI lawyer. You are facing an immediate deadline to fight a driver’s license suspension, but at the same time you need to find the right lawyer for you. Schedule multiple consultations or phone calls if you are uncomfortable or have unanswered questions on your mind. You should never settle for a lawyer when your future is at stake. Some DUI cases last years in the court system, so make sure the lawyer you hire is someone you want by your side for during this fight.
Number 2: Know as much as possible about your lawyer before signing a retainer agreement.
What you hear on radio commercials or television ads should NOT be the only thing you know before you hire a DUI lawyer. Schedule a consultation to meet and speak directly with your lawyer. Ask them about their experience with DUI cases, and about cases with similar facts.
You should also do your own research to find out what other people say about your attorney. Reviews from past clients or other attorneys can help you know what to expect when you hire a DUI lawyer.
Number 3: Know if your attorney has the relevant expereince to fight your DUI charge.
Before you hire a DUI lawyer, find out if they are up to date with the latest scientific research. What do they know about field sobriety tests? Do they know about exposed flaws in police techniques? Are they aware of the impact of marijuana and other drugs on driving safe or impaired?
You should also find out if your lawyer is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, the DUI Defense Lawyers Association, or other groups that keep their members on top of all the latest breakthroughs regarding DUI criminal defense.
Number 4: Know if your attorney has experience with the Judge and Prosecutor on your case.
A major key to any lawyer’s overall experience is their knowledge of your local jurisdiction.
Hire a DUI lawyer with experience in your courtroom. Your lawyer should know who to call to get on (or off) a judge’s calendar, how to obtain video evidence, and what to expect when trying to negotiate the best possible resolution to your case.
Different judges manage court in different ways. Thus, hiring a DUI lawyer with experience in your specific courtroom means less time wasted trying to figure things out, and more time committed to fighting for the outcome you deserve.
Number 5: Know how much you will be paying, and for what.
Your legal fees should be clear before you hire a DUI lawyer.
You need to know if you are paying a flat fee as opposed to an hourly rate. Another consideration is whether or not you are paying a trial fee separate from your legal retainer. Ask your lawyer if you should expect additional expenses related to expert witnesses or testimony. A good DUI lawyer should also you prepare for the potential costs of drug/alcohol screenings and evaluations, DUI driving classes, license suspension fees, and any other potential outside expenses that may be required to resolve your case.
One of the most frustrating consequences of a DUI charge is the thousands of dollars you are facing in fines and fees. To make this process more less stressful, your DUI lawyer should be straight forward.
Number 6: Know how you will be communicating with your lawyer.
An initial consultation should set the stage of what to expect moving forward with your DUI lawyer. You should know if they will welcome phone calls, text messages, or emails, and if you will be speaking with your lawyer, that lawyer’s assistant, or other staff. You should also know how your lawyer will contact you regarding upcoming court dates or deadlines.
Communication is key. You should be comfortable knowing that your DUI lawyer is going to be available whenever you need to speak with them.
The penalties for Driving Under the Influence in the State of Georgia are serious, and you need to be serious about hiring the right DUI lawyer. Contact the Awad Legal Team today for a consultation and strategy session to fight your DUI charges.