Hiring an attorney is not a formidable task. However, finding a good attorney can be challenging in Colorado since every highway, truck stop and diner has tens of hoardings, posters, and advertisements of DUI attorneys for hire. It is difficult to rely on a self-sponsored face or name that you see on TV when the trial comes. That is why you need to learn the secrets of hiring a good DUI and DWAI attorney before the hour of need.
The secret lies in the questions you ask before hiring one. Your interview questions should have the power to tell a good and able lawyer from an incompetent one. The criminal justice system is quite ruthless, and it does not hold still for people, who make mistakes in choosing their attorneys. Therefore, you need to remember the right questions you must ask before hiring your legal team.
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Learn about the legal team’s background and experience
When you first meet the team of lawyers, try to find out all about their experience and background. Here are the few questions you must ask –
- Which law school did you attend and when did you graduate?
- Are you a member of any bar associations? Are you a member of any other legal association?
- Do you have extensive experience dealing with DUI and DWI charges?
- How many DUI clients do you handle per year?
- Do you specialize in DUI and DWAI cases only? Or, do you provide consultation for other instances when business is slow?
- How often do you take DUI cases to court?
- When was the last time you won a case and lost another?
- Do you have experience working with the prosecutor in my case?
It is always an advantage for the clients to hire a DUI attorney, who has enough experience and familiarity with the legal system. An attorney with an acquaintance in the prosecutor’s office has favorable chances of negotiating better terms for his or her clients. For example – your DUI attorney can reduce your penalty and jail time to community service and DUI School.
Get an assessment of your case
Before the legal team gets down to business, request an evaluation. All DUI and DWAI attorneys should be able to give you feedback based upon your case details. Here are some questions you must ask them directly –
- Should I take a guilty plea? Why should I do so? Should the case go to trial?
- What factors work against my favor?
- What should I expect from arraignment, motions hearing, filing of motions, disposition, and trial?
Get information about case management
All DUI and DWI attorneys have distinct methods of handling their cases. German Defense DUI prefers to communicate with the client directly during the initial as well as the last phases of a trial. You should ask the following questions before you hire your representation –
- Who will represent me in court? Will you represent me or will a junior lawyer take charge?
- Will any other legal professional work on my case? When can I meet them?
- In the event of queries, who do I approach? What is your firm’s average turnover time?
- Will I receive regular updates? How often will I receive status updates?
Have a clear word about fees
Most DUI and DWI cases can be expensive for the client. The degree of expense depends upon the complexity and situation. Second and third DUI cases are definitely costlier than first DUI convictions. The legal fee is only a part of it. However, before you begin working with a lawyer, or firm, you should put your cards on the table. Find out all about added charges and overheads before the bill surprises you.
- What is your hourly fee? Do you always bill by the hour?
- What does your flat hourly fee include? What are the additional services I might require?
- What do those additional services cost?
- What is the favorable mode of payment? Can I pay in check or by card? Do you accept cash payments?
- If you charge a flat fee, can I extend the payments well after the case?
- Is your fee refundable?
Sometimes, clients find it hard to decide between two different attorneys. Since you can choose only one, you should go ahead and inquire about the strengths, USPs and weaknesses of the two firms you like most. The successful DUI law firm should have multiple winning cases in its portfolio, along with some of the most impressive DUI and DWAI lawyers on its payroll. You can ask your friends and relatives about their experience while working with DUI lawyers. Gather recommendations and references. Nothing works better than first-hand reviews while picking the right lawyer for defending your DUI or DWAI charges.