Hiring A DUI Attorney

Hiring A DUI Attorney

It’s no secret that drinking and driving are hazardous and against the law. You will be charged with DUI, can lead to numerous penalties. First-time offenders typically face a hefty fine, jail time, and potential driver license suspension. A first offense is a Class B misdemeanor, and legal penalties vary from state to state. The 2nd and 3rd offenses are felonies. An offender can serve time in prison, pay stiffer fines, and permanently lose their driver’s license. Hiring a DUI attorney can help reduce your fines and even get the charges and penalties dropped.

If charged with DUI/DWI, seek professional help from an experienced and reliable attorney. Do not attempt to represent yourself. These are serious charges that come with severe consequences. A DUI/DWI attorney can help you receive shorter jail sentences and lower fines. When you need a DUI/DWI lawyer, don’t go for the cheapest one you find. Remember the adage, “You get what you pay for.”

Take Note: DWI means driving while intoxicated or driving while impaired. DUI means driving under the influence. Some states use the terms interchangeably.

Finding a DUI Attorney in Southern Utah

Do you know somebody pleased with their DUI/DWI attorney? Referrals are great, but you need a face-to-face consultation before you hire a DUI lawyer. After meeting the attorney, you will get a good idea of what it’s like to work with them. If you don’t feel compatible, go to the next attorney.  At Palmer Litigation, we offer free consultations to anyone seeking legal representation. Click here to schedule yours today!

Red Flags When Hiring A DUI Attorney

You could get a good first impression of the lawyer you meet with at a more prominent firm, then get passed along to another attorney. Larger firms may pass your case along to another, less-experienced attorney. Ask the person you’re speaking with if they will handle your case or assign it to another attorney. Make sure to meet with that attorney. You may not feel the same type of connection with a different lawyer. Another red flag is a lawyer who makes a lot of promises. They are likely untrustworthy and “in it” for the money. However, if he explains the potential penalties of your type of case in layman’s language (not legal ease), he likely knows his stuff.

Does the firm focus on DUI cases?

Find out if the lawyer you’re speaking with has earned certifications or specific DUI/DWI law training.  For instance, an attorney board-certified in the DUI/DWI realm by the National College for DUI Defense has undergone rigorous training for their specialty. After the potential attorney reads the documents about your DUI/DWI charges and any unfavorable evidence, ask for their assessment of your case.

Can a DUI lawyer decrease the negative influences on your case?

Firstly, discuss the steps the attorney would take to minimize the overall impact of a DWI on your life. For example, you get fired, jailed, and lose your driver’s license. Consequently, you may get a mandatory breathalyzer hooked up in your automobile. Find out if your potential lawyer could get you a reduced sentence or even drop the charges.

What are DUI Attorney Fees?

Remember, you’re not looking for the cheapest lawyer in town. You’re looking for a quality attorney for a fair price. Typically, lawyers charge hourly rates. Ultimately, you will be billed for the time they work on your case. In addition, find out their hourly rate and ask for a ballpark estimate of the time you will be charged. Some firms charge flat fees. Accordingly, your one-time payment would cover their work on your case.

How to Engage DUI/DWI Attorneys

If you are charged with DUI/DWI, schedule a free consultation with us to learn more about your case. This consultation may undoubtedly help answer some of your questions.

Lastly, ensure you and your potential lawyer are compatible and that their fee is fair and reasonable. You will need to hire a DUI attorney, as this is not a DIY project.