Arrested for DUI? Now what?
If you are reading this, there is a good chance that you or someone you care about has been recently arrested for driving under the influence, or
DUI. After reading this, I expect that the task of finding and hiring a
DUI lawyer will be less stressful.
When I meet with a new DUI client for the first time, I allow enough time for the consultation because DUI cases can be complicated. There is a lot of material to discuss including possible criminal sanctions and the potential negative impacts on the driver's license. You will help your lawyer if you have all of your paperwork that you received when you left the police station. Generally, you will have the following papers: tickets, bond receipt, Notice of Summary Suspension, and Warning to Motorist. You may also have with you papers relating to the towing of your car and possible impoundment actions taken by the city against you. If there was an accident, you should have a copy of the accident report. I like to see all of the paperwork to get as good an idea as possible about what happened.
Bear in mind that although you have several papers, there are other things, too. For example, there are police reports, videos, lab reports, equipment logs, etc. Once your lawyer has these things, he or she will go over them with you.
After telling me your side of the story, you have an opportunity to ask me any questions you have. For example, you may have questions about what the impact will be on your driver's license as well as questions about what can happen to you if you are convicted.
I will also tell you what our fee for defending you will be and discuss any questions you have about our fee, including payment arrangements.
You will be best served in choosing a lawyer that has the qualities that matter to you. It's a good idea to interview different lawyers, but don't just shop around for the cheapest one, or you might not be happy with the results. Find a lawyer that you feel comfortable working with. Most of all, when it comes to DUI cases, you want a lawyer with experience handling
DUI cases and other criminal matters.