How to Find the Best DUI Lawyer

2007-03-08 10:33:40

( Insurance )



Nature of a DUI Offense

In all states, a DUI (driving under influence) offense is considered serious. A person who has taken alcohol or other substances may impair his ability to drive, and is liable to cause serious accident or death on the road.

If you have been arrested for DUI, you will be asked to take field sobriety tests. If you refuse, you need to take tests to determine your blood alcohol content or BAC. Under Los Angeles DUI or Maryland DUI laws, a BAC level of .08% or higher can convict you of DUI. Depending on how many DUI offenses you've had in the last ten years, penalties for DUI include suspension of your driver's license, jail terms, fines, attending an alcohol education program, or impounding of your vehicle.

Clearing a DUI offense is difficult and you will most likely be unsuccessful without a good DUI lawyer to represent you.

Qualifications of a Good DUI Lawyer

To represent a person accused of DUI requires a high level of knowledge, skill and experience in criminal law, especially DUI cases. The best DUI lawyer is able to have the DUI case dismissed or at the very least, appeal for a reduction of the penalties on behalf of his client.

The best DUI lawyer is well-versed in the technicalities of the field sobriety and BAC tests, and will be able to determine if there had been any inconsistencies or lapses in the procedures performed on his client, as well in the competence of the arresting officers involved.

Looking for the Best DUI Lawyer

Reputation is perhaps the most important criterion you should consider. Aside from the lawyer's years of experience, you should also find out how many cases he has handled and won. You should also find out how much of his practice is devoted to DUI cases, any seminars he has attended, and books or publications he has written on the topic. A lawyer who handles DUI in California should also be a member of the National College for DUI Defense, and has reputable status under the state bar.

A second major criterion is price, as you must be able to afford one. Unfortunately, the best DUI lawyers also come with a high price, at least fifteen thousand dollars or more. Find out if his price includes retainer fees, court witnesses, appeals and independent BAC analysis. You also need to know when you need to pay part or whole of the amount, before or after the court hearing.

His manner of dealing with clients is also a major factor. The best DUI lawyers are always available for you when you need to talk to them, or at least have assistants who can keep an open line of communication with you while the case is still pending. He shows concern for your well-being and not just for the amount you will be paying him. Above all, he is straightforward and honest with you every step of the way.


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