Intoxicated driving is no joke, killing 29 people in the United States and sending thousands more to prison each day.
But what happens if you feel as though you were wrongly accused of driving under the influence? Believe it or not, it happens all the time.
And when it happens, it’s crucial that you defend yourself and your legal rights. That means hiring a DUI lawyer with the experience and skill needed to handle your case.
Keep reading to learn how you can hire the best DUI lawyer to fight your charges!
Research Possible Defenses
Though it is possible to overcome a DUI charge, you’re looking at an uphill battle. But, like tackling any hill, it is possible to overcome your charges should you have the right strategy.
Before contacting an attorney, look into all of your possible defenses so you can have a greater understanding of the strategies your lawyer may use. This can give you insight into a lawyer’s expertise, as we’ll explore later on.
Start with federal law, then expand your research into some additional reading on state law. Each state handles DUI charges in different ways, and understanding your local laws and how they differ allows for greater insight into potential loopholes or defense strategies.
Prioritize Experience Over Price
Understandably, your first instinct is the find the most affordable DUI attorney. Though saving money is nice, you may not end up with the best DUI attorney should you go this route.
On the contrary, the most affordable attorneys tend to charge less than their competitors due to a lack of clients or courtroom experience.
Instead, search for the most experienced lawyers in your state, focusing on those with a proven track record of winning DUI defense cases.
While you may end up spending a bit more money, it’s worth it in the end if it means winning your case and avoiding jail time.
Schedule DUI Lawyer Consultations
Once you’ve found a few DUI attorneys with a series of wins under their belts, it’s time to reach out and schedule a consultation.
The consultation is often the most important part of the process, allowing you to get a greater sense of the level of skill an attorney has by asking questions and presenting your potential concerns.
Your best bet is to schedule consultations with multiple attorneys. That way, you’ll have more options, allowing you to choose the best possible fit.
So, what should you bring to a consultation?
Come prepared with the basic details of your case and present any evidence you might have. Before the meeting, make sure you have:
- A copy of the citation
- The exact date, time, and location of the traffic stop
- Details on the type of test used to determine intoxication
This is the tip of the iceberg, though. The more information you can provide, the stronger the case your lawyer can make.
Plus, most consultations are free of charge, so you won’t have to worry about paying upfront.
Hiring the Best Lawyer for Your DUI Defense
Fighting DUI charges is never easy. But with the right DUI lawyer, you’ll stand a better chance of having your charges dismissed and regaining your license, as well as possibly your freedom.
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