If you’re a Californian who is facing a DUI charge, you need the best lawyer you can get to help get you out of your jam. Getting a DUI is no joke. If you are convicted you could face hefty fines, rising insurance costs, the loss of your driver’s license, and even jail time. It could also cause you to lose your job and hurt your chances of finding work in the future.
Because of the importance of your DUI case, you shouldn’t entrust it to just anyone. You need a DUI attorney that is experienced and competent at defending DUI cases. Your attorney must know their way around a courtroom, and be familiar with the judges and prosecutors in your locale. This is knowledge that can only be gained through years of experience, so make sure your potential DUI lawyer has plenty of it.
Your best bet may be to agree to plead guilty to reduced charges and face a lighter punishment, rather than allow your case to go to trial, or fight to have it dismissed. Good California DUI lawyers will know when taking a deal is your best option. Part of this knowledge comes from having familiarity with the judge overseeing your case, and the prosecution team involved. This is another huge reason why having an experienced lawyer is so important. You should know that well-respected, experienced lawyers tend be more expensive than others, but you should not let that deter you. If your lawyer can lessen your punishment substantially, it will be well worth the price.
Before Deciding on a DUI Lawyer
You should speak to several potential DUI lawyers before choosing one. Make sure that you feel comfortable with your lawyer and are satisfied with his or her qualifications before making a commitment.
Make sure the lawyer you speak to will be the one handling your case, rather than passing it on to someone else.
Ask potential lawyers if they regularly take DUI cases to a jury trial. Some attorneys don’t bother to fight DUI cases even when there is a good chance of winning. Make sure your attorney is comfortable doing so, in case a jury trial is the best option in your case.
Try to find a California DUI lawyer who has expertise in the methods law enforcement uses to measure your blood alcohol content, such as field sobriety tests, breathalyzers, etc. The results of these can be inaccurate, and a good lawyer will be prepared to attack the prosecution on these points.
After explaining your case, ask what the lawyer’s defense strategy would be. After getting responses from several attorneys, you’ll be able to make an informed decision on what you think the best approach your case would be, and you can choose your lawyer accordingly.
Resources
If you need help finding a California DUI lawyer, here are some excellent resources to find legal information and search for a lawyer near you.
