What To Look For In A Dui Defense Attorney

Driving under the influence of alcohol causes many problems. If you get caught operating a vehicle while intoxicated, you could be arrested and even thrown in jail. A DUI defense attorney is your best representative in these types of cases. Your lawyer can fight for your rights and will have your best interests in mind throughout the case. There are a few criteria that you should consider when looking for this type of lawyer.

One of the most important things to look for is availability. How easily can you access your lawyer when he is needed the most? Is he available during office hours, or is he available any time you need him? Since drunk driving arrests are rarely made during the day, you will want someone who is available to you anytime day or night. Also, does the DUI defense attorney you are considering accept collect phone calls or have a toll-free number you can call? If you are caught without your cell phone, you will want to still have the ability to call your lawyer from any telephone.

Along with telephone availability, the lawyer that you choose should be willing to come to you if necessary. Some lawyers will only meet you at their office, while others will come to your home, office, hospital room, or jail cell.

The next thing you should consider is whether or not you must pay a retainer fee or if you simply pay when you have a case. Some DUI defense attorneys offer free consultations and no-fee guarantees. Depending on your financial status, keeping an attorney on retainer may or may not be a wise financial investment. However, if you want to be guaranteed access to the lawyer you want, this may be an option to add to your considerations.

Perhaps the most important aspect to consider is the experience that the DUI defense lawyer brings to your case. These types of charges are serious, and courts are becoming stricter on how these cases are dealt with. You want someone who knows the law well, and has experience in cases like yours. Also, choosing a lawyer who is well known and respected might be helpful.

Obviously, avoiding a drunk driving arrest is the key aspect to never having to deal with this type of battle. Unfortunately, sometimes people make mistakes and find themselves in unfortunate circumstances. Since all are innocent until proven guilty in this country, you have the benefit of the doubt until you are found to be in error. While consequences may vary from case to case, having a lawyer on your side can make a big difference in the consequences you have to deal with as a result of your mistakes.

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