5 Factors to Consider When Hiring a DUI Lawyer
When facing charges of driving under the influence, the importance of proper legal representation cannot be understated, as not all attorneys have the skills and experience to handle these cases successfully. By considering these five factors, a defendant will find it easier to choose the right attorney and achieve a favorable outcome.
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Legal Credentials
A DUI defendant’s first stop should be their local bar association’s website, which will list the area’s DUI defense attorneys. When making a list, be sure each attorney has a current license to practice in the state. Some procedures and rules may vary depending on where the charges were filed, and it is important to find an attorney who practices in the area. A Massachusetts DUI attorney knows the state’s laws and how to work within them to help clients achieve fairer outcomes.
The Potential For Procedural Errors
In most DUI cases, prosecutors argue that a defendant’s blood alcohol level was above the legal limit at the time of the arrest. Officers are only human, though, and mistakes can be made. If an arresting officer fails to follow procedures when administering a breathalyzer test, a defense attorney may argue that the test was inaccurate, and the test results may be thrown out of court.
Experience
While credentials are an important part of a successful DUI defense, they’re not the only factor to consider. To build the strongest possible case, a defendant must also consider the attorney’s experience. Find a DUI lawyer with a long-term focus on DUI law who takes these cases often. The more cases an attorney has handled, the better they’re likely to do with yours.
Trial Readiness
Some attorneys are reluctant to set foot in a courtroom. Before deciding which attorney to hire, schedule consultations with several firms and pay careful attention to attorneys’ speech and mannerisms. Do they talk and move with confidence? If a lawyer seems nervous or finds it hard to communicate, look elsewhere.
In some cases, attorneys settle cases out of court simply to avoid the hassle and expense of a trial. However, this isn’t always the best strategy, and DUI attorneys should put clients’ interests above their own.
Their History
Two out of every three people will be involved in a crash with a drunk driver in their lifetime. Odds are, the attorney you choose will have handled similar cases before, and the more cases they have handled, the better off you’ll be. Ask how many cases they’ve handled, whether they were able to help clients stay out of jail, and if they were able to get charges reduced or dropped.
Bonus Factor: The Attorney’s Reputation
Potential clients can also learn about the DUI attorneys on their lists by asking past clients for information. Ask the DUI lawyer for references and follow up with some of them. It’ll give you an idea of what to expect. Online reviews, such as those from Google My Business and the BBB, provide another great place to start. Select a firm with a strong reputation, as its attorneys are more likely to preserve that reputation by building strong defenses.
Keep These Factors In Mind
When choosing a DUI lawyer, don’t plan to hire the first one you find. By considering these factors, defendants will find the right attorneys for their cases. Get more information online or call today to schedule a no-obligation consultation with a local DUI attorney.
