A DUI conviction is not only expensive, but it can also be detrimental to you as it may result in a criminal record or having your license suspended. However, with the right attorney, you can minimize the consequences.
Amidst the thousands of lawyers available online, how do you cut through the noise to find the best DUI lawyers? We recommend choosing a DUI defense attorney who has:
- Gone to court and fought with successful outcomes for their clients
- Has spent money and time obtaining advanced trial practice
- Is recognized by credible and established directories as a top DUI lawyer
Hiring the Best DUI Lawyer
A drunk driving accusation is serious and can result in very dire consequences. You should immediately embark on hiring a DUI lawyer who can aggressively fight the charges.
A good DUI lawyer should have good client ratings proving he has successfully fought such cases before.
In your search for a defense attorney, consider working with one who has specialized in advanced legal practice. It also helps if he has authored and is credited in law books as this gives you an advantage in the courtroom.
Remember if convicted of a DUI charge, the consequences can be lifelong. Therefore, it is crucial to choose a lawyer who understands the consequences of the outcome and is keen to minimize damages.
An experienced lawyer who has knowledge of the legal system can make all the difference in your case.
Factors to Consider on Your Search for the Best DUI Lawyers
No two DUI cases are alike, and each occurs under unique circumstances. You want to hire a skilled defense attorney who is also experienced enough. Some factors to consider in your search for the best DUI lawyer are:
- An active license: Your lawyer should be licensed in the state where the DUI occurred.
- Clean ethical record: Visit your state’s bar association website to find out whether he has disciplinary action taken against him
- An ABA-accredited law school degree
- Extensive DUI experience: Choose a lawyer who has specialized in DUI cases preferably from The National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers or the National College for DUI Defense
Your lawyer should also have a high success rate. Ask to see client reviews where the lawyer significantly reduced or helped clients avoid penalties altogether. You can also visit your attorney’s LinkedIn profile to learn more about them and read their reviews.
Finding the Best DUI Lawyers Near You
There are numerous legal professionals currently available online to offer representation in DUI cases. However, you want to choose a lawyer who has proven themselves. If you are looking for a DUI lawyer near you, consider:
- Asking family and friends for referrals. You can even ask lawyers that you have previously worked with whether they have any colleagues dealing with DUI cases
- Check your local directory, social media, and lawyer websites
- Take advantage of free first appointments offered by most DUI lawyers to attract clients to meet the lawyers and ask questions.
Some questions you can ask the lawyer to make sure you choose the right representation are:
- The number of DUI cases they have handled.
- How much of your case will they handle personally?
- How much will it cost?
- What is the expected outcome in your case?
- What is their recommended strategy for your case?
- How many clients have they helped avoid conviction or get lesser penalties?
Bring all your documents to the first meeting as well as the police report to give the lawyer a chance to look at your case and come up with strategies for your defense. Always be upfront with your lawyer as it gives you the best chances of a positive outcome when he has a clear picture of the whole case.
We recommend working with an attorney who is local to the area where you were accused of drunk driving. They understand their local laws better than an out-of-state lawyer. They also understand how to navigate the local legal system
If they are experienced, it is also likely that they have handled plenty of similar cases with positive outcomes.
How Much Will It Cost to Hire a DUI Lawyer?
Fees vary by state; however, most DUI lawyers charge an hourly rate. The costs can also be determined by the complexity of your case as well as your lawyer’s experience. A more experienced lawyer with a high rate of success is highly sought after and will naturally come at a higher cost.
A DUI case is also considered a criminal case so lawyers cannot charge contingency fees. This means that their fees do not depend on the outcome of your case. Whether you lose or win, you still have to pay your lawyer the agreed fees. In most cases, the lawyer may even ask for a retainer upfront.
The good news is that you can negotiate your lawyer’s fees. Your DUI lawyer should give you a good faith estimate detailing their fees and additional costs such as expert witness costs, court document costs, and others.
We do not recommend choosing your lawyer based on their fees. Consider their expertise and track record in getting favorable outcomes.
Why Should You Hire a DUI Lawyer?
It is never a good idea to represent yourself in criminal cases. Always hire a professional as a DUI conviction can have serious lifelong consequences such as:
- Jail time
- Criminal record
- License suspension
- Fines
- Expensive monthly and installation fees for an Ignition Interlock Device a breathalyzer for your vehicle
- Alcohol treatment programs
A DUI attorney will work hard to help you avoid jail time if possible. They can also help you minimize the consequences and get other positive outcomes such as:
- Diversion programs that will not go on your record
- Fight the charges effectively to avoid conviction
- Find out any evidence that was obtained illegally and keep it out of court
- Find expert witnesses
- Make persuasive arguments to get you a hardship or restricted license
- Argue for a reduced sentence
- Argue for a license suspension
- Negotiate for lesser charges
If the police obtain evidence in violation of your rights, a DUI lawyer who is familiar with negotiating a plea deal or diversion programs can get you a fair outcome. Many of the best DUI lawyers have spent years learning the legal system in their state.
Some have dedicated their entire legal career to helping clients make a fresh start after a DUI case without a criminal record. It is clear that hiring the right lawyer has a significant impact on the outcome of your case.
If you do not have one, start your search and get in touch with the best DUI attorneys to protect your rights.
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