Deciding who to hire for your DUI case can seem a bit overwhelming. For many people, after a DUI arrest is the first time they have ever had to consider getting a lawyer. You may not want to ask friends, family or coworkers for recommendations because a DUI is not something most people want to go around announcing to others because of the stigma involved.
If you go looking on the internet, or in the phonebook, it may seem like there are hundreds of lawyers all saying the same things, so how do you choose? Don't be afraid of asking too many questions, because the lawyer you decide to hire can make all the difference in your DUI case. Ask any and all questions you can think of, and if the lawyer seems annoyed by all your questions or impatient, then that isn't the right lawyer for you.
Your DUI lawyer should be someone who is available anytime you need them, not just during regular business hours. If you have a question at 10 o'clock at night about your court appearance the next day, your lawyer should be available to help you out. So make sure your lawyer not only has the experience, education, and DUI training you're looking for. It is just as important that they are someone who takes you seriously, and will do whatever it takes to give you the best quality representation.
Hiring an Atlanta DUI Lawyer
In Georgia, DUI cases are different that other types of cases. Criminal charges for shoplifting, burglary, domestic violence, and drug possession usually don't involve the defendant doing roadside tests like walking a straight line and standing on one leg. But this is exactly the type of “evidence” that can be presented at a DUI trial.
Getting the same kind of training as the police officers who conduct roadside tests is beneficial for DUI lawyers to understand DUI specific testing. Other lawyers who handle general criminal matters may not have this kind of specialized training and insight. So make sure to ask about DUI specific training and education in addition to your lawyer's courtroom experience.
Questions for Your DUI Consultation
Call up the DUI lawyer you are considering for your case, have a list of the questions you want to ask, and have a calendar available to schedule your initial consultation. This can usually be done over the phone for your convenience, and to save you time. These questions are not exhaustive, but can give you an idea for what kinds of things may be important when choosing the best DUI lawyer for your.
- How long have you been practicing DUI law?
- How much of your practice is dedicated to DUI cases versus other kinds of law?
- How many clients do you have at a time?
- Are you certified in DUI Detection and Standardized Field Sobriety Testing using the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration curriculum?
- Are you familiar with the judge in my case?
- Are you familiar with the prosecutor in my case?
- Are you familiar with the police officer who arrested me?
- What kind of reviews do your clients give you?
- What kind of reviews do other lawyers give you?
- Can I call you anytime I have a question or concern?
- Will you give me your phone number so I can reach you by phone or text, even at night and on the weekends?
- Are you the lawyer who will handle my case, or will you hand me off to someone else?
- Will you file a 10-day letter for me so my license won't automatically get suspended?
- Can you represent me at my administrative license suspension hearing as well as my criminal hearings?
- Would you recommend a plea deal, or should I fight my DUI charges?
- What do you charge for a DUI case, and what is included in the fee?
- Are there extra costs or hidden fees that you'll charge me?
Again, these are just some questions you may want to ask. But it is important that you get a good feeling from talking to your potential lawyer.
Your Georgia DUI Defense Lawyer
If you or a loved one have been arrested for a DUI, make sure to find a lawyer who has your interests at heart, and is willing to listen to you and make sure you get treated fairly. But don't forget to act within 10 days after your arrest, because you only have 10 days to request a license suspension hearing to try and keep your license from automatically getting suspended. If you have any other questions or concerns about finding the right DUI lawyer for you, call me today. I will be able to request your 10-day hearing, challenge your license suspension, and stand by you when facing criminal DUI charges.