A DWI attorney comes in handy when you have been charged with driving while intoxicated. Legally, intoxication is not reduced to alcohol. If an officer deems that your judgment is impaired, they could have you charged. This means that you could be charged with a DUI if you drove while under the influence of prescription drugs too.
When hiring a lawyer to defend you in a DUI, here are some of the things you should have in mind:
1. Experience
You want to have an attorney by your side who is well versed with the specific law that deals in DWI. The legal system is a complex web, and you need someone who has represented other people in the past so that you can navigate the implications to your advantage.
2. Credible References
Go for a lawyer who has reliable references. You could use their website as a starting point, though it would be better if they came referred by a friend or a colleague. It always feels safe knowing that the person you are dealing with has a certain record of winning such cases.
3. Sample a Few
Unless an excellent attorney is referred to you, it could do you some good to meet a few of them before hiring one. The answers they give you could help you tell their level of expertise and help you make your decision.
4. Personable
You want to be represented by someone who understands you and empathizes with you. You will be seeing them a great deal, so it could also help to hire someone with whom you get along- unless they are the best, and you do not have much of a choice.
5. Fees
Discuss the fees upfront. Let your preferred attorney let you know how much they are going to charge you upfront. Additionally, let them tell you whether they foresee anything that could cause their legal fee to escalate. You do not want them to hit you with an exorbitant bill once the case is done.
6. Local
Go for a lawyer who is based in your area. They have the credentials to practice there and are familiar with the specific laws that govern the State.
7. Proper Documentation
When choosing an attorney, you want to hire one that has the correct documentation for practice. Ensure that they have a proper brick and mortar office in the first place (in the advent of virtual workspaces, some careers still require the traditional setting) and the licenses to practice. Remember are entrusting them with your freedom and record.
DUI cases are sensitive, and if you do not get proper representation, you could end up with a more severe penalty than you are entitled. No matter how simple a case looks, you are better off with an experienced lawyer who has a good grasp of the legal system and knows how to navigate it. If you have to find one hastily, enlist the help of colleagues or acquaintances.
Written by Kellie Bertels, an attorney at Bandre, Hunt and Snider in Jefferson City, MO. Bandre, Hunt and Snider are the best DWI attorneys Jefferson City MO have to offer.