Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious charge. It is vital that you meet with multiple attorneys to find one that can best represent you. How can you find the right person to trust with your case? Here are 3 tips on how to research a defense attorney to handle a DWI case.
Tip # 1 – Experience
Research the experience of the attorney to know you are hiring the right person for the job. How long have they been a practicing attorney? Do they primarily focus on DWI cases? How long have they exclusively worked on DWI cases? It is vital that you hire an attorney that works on DUI and DWI cases as they are required to keep up with the latest information on drunk driving regulations. How many cases have they taken on in the past? What is their win/loss record? This is another thing to consider as you need to hire a person that has a lot of experience in the field. What can the attorney do to keep your case off your driving record? You need to demand clear answers to the questions you are asking an attorney. If they are not willing to give them to you, get a second opinion.
Tip # 2 – Handling Your Case
Since each case is unique, it is expected to have multiple people working on the case with the attorney. How many people will focus on your case, and will the attorney be your primary point of contact? Will they work on other cases at the same time or will they devote all of their attention to your case? It is important to understand where the professional accountability lies. You need to hire an attorney that cares about you and is invested in your case. Look for a person that values the client relationship. Will they keep you informed of updates related to your case? If you do not know who will handle your case on a daily basis, it is best to seek out a second opinion. A good attorney will treat you like a person, not like another case.
Tip # 3 – Cost
Paying for the legal fees associated with a DWI case can be costly, especially if you go to trial. How much will it cost you to hire the attorney? Will they ask for a fee up-front, or will you pay them once the case is settled? Many attorneys will have a flat-rate fee for their services. This cost will rise if they do need to take your case to court. In which case, you must make sure you are hiring a person with a good winning record in the court room. During the initial meeting with the attorney, try to get a sense for their personality. If they seem like a fighter, and you feel that they are trustworthy, it may help to ease some fears about taking your case to trial. Once you do settle upon a cost, get it in writing. You need to cover your end and make sure you are not getting charged for excess fees that were not in the original agreement.
Hiring the right DWI defense attorney is a decision you must carefully consider. Make sure you are taking the time to research multiple attorneys so you can find a person you can trust. Any case is winnable with the right team on your side. Contact David Knecht Law for a consultation!
