What happens when a night of enjoyment that involves drinks out with your friends turns out to be a nightmarish experience for you? If you are not careful, you could be caught in a case that accuses you of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The severity levels of this case depend on whether you have been involved in an accident or not while driving. If you are randomly held by the police while driving under the influence of illegal substances, you could be let off with a severe warning and huge penalty charges. However, if you cause damage to the lives/property of other people in a drunken driving case, you are sure to receive a long jail sentence. Your driving license could be cancelled, and it would mean a serious dent in your life when you pursue other opportunities. This is why you need the services of a DUI lawyer, who gives his best shot to bail you out of this legal mess. So, naturally, you have to be careful while choosing the right legal partner.
Approach
When you are involved in a drunken driving case, you need a legal expert who explains the case frankly to you and tells you where you stand in the case, so that you are prepared for the judgement with an open mind. Choose an expert who advises you on the right strategy. Some cases demand you to plead guilty while some require you to opt for a negotiation. Your DUI lawyer should be able to guide you on the difference between the two and devise practical strategies for you so that you get the best possible result.
Specialist experience
You might find many legal experts in your area and your friend might offer to fight the case on your behalf for a reduced fee. However, you should steer clear from emotional decisions and choose a person who has specific experience in handling drunken driving cases before. These cases demand a thorough knowledge of the local drinking and driving laws of your locality; therefore, you cannot afford to take a risk by appointing a general lawyer for this case. You will need the experience and subject matter expertise of specific DUI lawyers if you want to walk out with a reduced punishment, even if you are found guilty in the case.
Breakdown of cost
Know what you are paying for. This is very important because it helps you to remain in control of your case. Never choose a DUI lawyer who is hesitant to put down his cost terms on paper as this would only mean that you should brace yourself for hidden costs later on. Agree with the price terms, the frequency of payment, mode of payment and breakdown of each and every element mentioned in the cost structure, so that you have a clear idea where your money is being deployed. DUI lawyers don’t come cheap; therefore, it is imperative to know the details. You need to remember that you should never prioritize on cost factor when you choose a DUI lawyer.
