Tips for Selecting and Hiring a DUI Attorney
When you or someone in your family is arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), it can be a scary time. You co
uld lose your drivers’ license or even face jail time. Although there are many DUI attorneys in Daytona Beach area, if you have never had a DUI or been in trouble with the law before, you may know you need an attorney, but wonder how to select and hire one. Below are some tips you can use that can help make the process simpler.
1. Select an attorney from the local area. Although a Florida attorney can usually practice anywhere in the state of Florida, a local attorney will be more familiar with the judges at the courthouse that may be hearing your case. This can be helpful in the courtroom as your attorney will have a better idea of how to best proceed with your case.
2. Choose an attorney who specializes in handling DUI cases. Think of it as being similar to a patient using a surgeon that treats only one kind of illness. Since DUI attorneys usually only take DUI cases, they are more familiar with DUI law than a regular family attorney would be. They will also be more familiar with the courtroom procedures for DUI cases.
3. Ask for a recommendation from someone who has been through a DUI arrest before. Most people are usually more than willing to tell you about a good or bad experience that they have had with an attorney. Keep in mind that a DUI arrest is often a sensitive subject. If you are in the workplace, speak to the person in private and away from prying ears.
4. Get a referral from your own family attorney. Your attorney will understand if you wish to hire a different attorney that specializes in this particular type of law. Even though your attorney may not know of a DUI attorney personally, most attorneys have heard of the other attorneys in their local area by their reputation. This means that they can often refer you to someone who they have heard good things about even if they don’t personally know them.
5. Hire a DUI attorney that you feel comfortable with. A DUI attorney should be able to address most of your concerns during your initial consultation. If they seems more interested in collecting money from you than answering any of your questions, or makes you feel rushed, you should probably look elsewhere.
6. Research your DUI attorney before your initial meeting. In the state of Florida, residents can check out a potential attorney online with The Florida Bar. This allows you to find out if your attorney has ever been suspended or had a disciplinary action filed against them.
7. Read over any written contracts before you sign. Most attorneys collect a retainer fee, which covers the initial attorney costs when they take your case. Get a full explanation of what the retainer fee will cover and what additional expenses you should expect to pay as your case progresses.
Guest post contributed by Musca Law firm, at 1540 Cornerstone Boulevard #200, Daytona Beach, FL 32117. You can reach them by phone at 386-341-9882. Disclaimer: This post does not constitute legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
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