Driving while intoxicated is a significant charge. If you are facing a charge for this infraction, be ready for a challenging experience. It would be best to prepare yourself by hiring a DWI lawyer.
While there are many DWI lawyers, choosing the best for your case can be daunting. You need a lawyer who will represent you and fight for your rights at all costs. However you plead, your attorney will help you navigate the complex procedures involved in building your defense.
What to Consider when Hiring a DWI Lawyer
Some people feel the need to represent themselves after a DWI arrest, but a DWI defense lawyer will help you understand your charges and the best way to handle them. Representing yourself could result in missed opportunities and further complications.
If you find it challenging to find the right DWI lawyer, the tips below will help you.
1. Specialization
Lawyers are trained to handle different types of cases. A family lawyer cannot effectively represent you in a drunk driving case. Ask the lawyer how long they have served as DWI lawyers and how many cases they have successfully defended.
DWI lawyers understand the complications around this type of case. The right selection will help you win and avoid punishment.
In addition to specialization, it is vital to hire a lawyer from your local area. They are familiar with the courts, juries, judges, and prosecutors in your area. With that advantage, it will be easy to navigate your case.
2. In-Person Consultation
Meeting the lawyer in person for consultation helps you determine if you are comfortable working with them. Since you do not know how long the case will drag on for, select someone you can effectively and efficiently communicate with.
Give the lawyer all the necessary information concerning your case. Do not hide anything because it might be harmful to your case in the future. Since every case is unique, come prepared with all the necessary documents related to the case.
After analyzing your case, expect a strategy on how they are planning to handle the matter. If this part is missing, take it as a red flag.
3. Size and Reputation of the Firm
Does the size of the law firm matter? Larger firms tend to have more cases, meaning that your lawsuit might be sidelined or given minimal attention. However, larger firms have existed for longer, hence more experience.
On the other hand, small firms have less backlog, giving your case their full attention. The downside is they have less experience.
The task here will be finding an experienced firm that will give your case their full attention.
4. Know the Legal Feels Up Front
Your attorney selection should not be based only on their fees, but also their experience. Some lawyers offer excellent services, but they are costly. You do not want to go into debt trying to settle their fees.
Settle for lawyers with reasonable payment plans, as well. Consult and get quotations from several DWI lawyers in your area. From the rates given, you will be able to select the best legal representation you can afford.
5. Effective Communication
Your defense attorney should keep you updated on all developments of the case. They should be honest with both good and bad news. Any decisions, whether big or small, concerning the case, should be made with your approval.
Choose the Right DWI Attorney
While you can wait and hire a lawyer when things get complicated, it is best if you hire an attorney immediately after the arrest. This way, your attorney will understand your case, seal loopholes, identify flaws, and defend you based on facts.
A DWI case is no joke and can affect your life in ways you never imagined. Invest in the best legal representation available to you.
