When being faced with a DUI charge, the outcome may seem hopeless. The consequences of driving under the influence vary by state, but they normally result in a suspension of your driver’s license and several points on your driving record. Because you are likely not well-versed in the complexities of DUI law, hiring a lawyer can help to uncover additional information that could be used towards your case.
While hiring a DUI lawyer may be deemed an investment, this could be a wise decision to make (https://www.dmv.org/dwi-attorneys.php). Those who do not spend the money on hiring a lawyer are assigned a public defender or a panel attorney, both of which may have limited time to work on your case and get you to the outcome you want to achieve.
From penalties to additional charges, a DUI lawyer is designed to become your go-to specialist according to Matthew A. Martin, P.C (https://www.dmv.org/dwi-attorneys.php) whose firm consists of DUI Attorneys in Denver. The benefit of hiring a local lawyer is that they have probably worked in the exact court setting prior to receiving your case. This experience can be beneficial because they will likely know firsthand what it is like dealing with the particular judge and might even be familiar with the officer involved in your case.
Someone who really knows the system is going to save you a lot of stress and hassle.
Researching lawyers on your own is only the first step. Once you see some options on lawyers to hire, it is recommended that you seek references. Being able to see what former clients had to say about their own experience with the given lawyer is going to provide you with the best insight.
Make sure that you are focusing your search to your specific area and to lawyers that specialize in DUI cases. Once you have a few options, schedule consultations with them all. You will be able to get to know each one individually to see if you think you will work well together. During these consultations, it is also advised to ask about all fees upfront. This is nothing to be ashamed of, and it will give you the most clarity when making your decision.
So, what exactly does a DUI lawyer do and what should you ask during your consultations (http://www.attorneys.com/dui-dwi/interviewing-a-dui-attorney)?
During each interview, make sure that you understand exactly what services each lawyer has to offer you. You should also ask about experience levels and background in law. Make sure that you establish a point of contact, and find out whether that will be the lawyer directly or another person who will be aiding the case.
Each DUI is circumstantial. Depending on the state that your DUI occurred in, along with your blood alcohol level, your punishment is going to vary. Your lawyer will be able to assess the big picture and give you some insight into the potential fines/jail time that you may have to face. Knowing the consequences of your actions is going to help you decide on your plea, given your case goes to trial. These individuals know the inner workings of the system and will be able to gather all of the information that you need in order to make an informed decision.
When you are going through this process, you will likely have to deal with the DMV and insurance companies. Your lawyer may be able to help you out during these processes, taking one less responsibility off your to-do list. They may also be able to recommend to you specific programs or classes that you can take to lessen the severity of your situation.
Remember, your lawyer will be representing you, so choose wisely. (https://criminal-law.freeadvice.com/criminal-law/drunk_driving/dui-lawyer.htm):
Seeking legal help is an entirely personal choice, but here is a basic guide that can help you make your decision:
Definitely Hire
If this is not your first DUI, you are going to want legal representation. Also, if an accident happened due to your intoxication and anyone was injured, you should also hire a lawyer. When the consequences are serious, can even potentially include jail time, it is not advised to take on the case by yourself.
Hire
If your BAC was over twice the legal limit, you are probably going to be looking at tougher punishment. It is recommended that you hire a lawyer in this case. Another example is if this is your first DUI, but it occured in a different state, you should also hire a lawyer that knows local laws.
Maybe Hire
If this is your first DUI, but you do not feel like you understand your state’s laws and regulations, you should look into hiring a lawyer. Even if your punishment does not appear to be severe, if there is ever a point where you do not understand something, it is wise to have someone on your team who will be able to explain it to you.
