what to ask dui lawyer consulation

by Myra Hodkiewicz 7 min read

At your free consultation, you need to ask the DUI attorney questions about their background and experience. You need to find out their record with cases like yours and what their approach is. You’ll want to make sure the Colorado Springs DUI defense lawyer you choose is known for successfully defending his or her clients.

Here are a few questions to ask your DUI lawyer:
  • How long have you been representing DUI clients? ...
  • Are you a former DUI prosecutor? (Many times former prosecutors open their own criminal defense practice).
  • What percentage of your caseload is devoted to DUIs?
  • How often to you take cases to trial?
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Oct 25, 2018

Full Answer

What questions should I ask my lawyer?

Questions to Ask Your Lawyer During a Consultation1) What kind of experience do you have with similar cases?2) What would be your strategy for my case?3) Are there any alternatives to going to court?4) What are my possible outcomes?5) Who will actually handle my case?6) What is my role in my case?More items...•Jan 29, 2017

How much does a DUI lawyer cost Alberta?

Although there are there is no set price for a DUI lawyer, due to every case being different, on average, an attorney can charge anywhere from $750 to $1,500.00 for a plea bargain, while a trial might usually is over $2,500.Mar 19, 2020

What are the consequences of a DUI in California?

For a first-offense DUI in California, consequences for conviction generally include three years of informal probation, fines of $390 plus “penalty assessments” (totally approximately $2000, and completing a first offender alcohol program that consists of a 30-hour class, at a cost of about $500.

Should I get a lawyer for my first DUI Michigan?

First-time offenders typically do not face penalties that are as harsh as those for repeat offenders; however a conviction will result in fines, driver's license suspension, and other penalties. For the best possible result, it is important you speak with a skilled and aggressive criminal defense attorney.

How do you beat a DUI in Alberta?

How to Beat a DUI Charge: Top 100+ Common Defences to a DUI from Lawyers who Defend DUI'sStructuring Your DUI Defences.Unlawful Reason for Traffic Stop.Failure to Properly Identify the Driver or Time of Driving.Invalid Roadside Breath Demand and Breath Test.Invalid Evidentiary Breath Demand and Test.More items...

How much is a DUI?

Average Costs of a DUI or DWI Arrest and ConvictionExpenseCostHigher Insurance Premiums$4,500-$10,000Defense Attorney$2,500-$5,000Court Fines$150-$1,800Alcohol Treatment/Education$1,000-$2,50013 more rows

How much is a DUI 2021 California?

* How much does a DUI cost? California DUI fines range from $390 to $5,000 plus penalty assessments & fees that can raise the total cost to $18,000, depending on your DUI charge. DUI with injury or property damage may also require you to pay injured parties.

How likely is jail time for first DUI California?

Do all California DUI convictions require jail time?DUI OffenseMinimum Jail TimeMaximum Jail Sentence1st DUI48 hours6 months2nd DUI (within 10 years)10 daysUp to 1 year3rd DUI (within 10 years)120 daysUp to 1 year4th (or more) DUI (within 10 years)180 daysUp to 3 years

Is jail time mandatory for 1st DUI in California?

In California, jail time is practically mandatory for people convicted of a DUI. Even if it is your first offense and no one was injured, a judge can sentence you to six months in jail.

Can you avoid jail time for first DUI?

In many states, you can avoid jail time for a standard first DUI. But if you have prior DUI convictions or the current offense involves certain aggravating factors, the likelihood of spending at least some time in jail goes up.

How long is probation for a first DUI conviction in Michigan?

Commonly the period of probation for a first offense drunk driving charge is one year. Some judges will consider early discharge from probation where the offender has been completely compliant and completed all of the terms imposed by the Court as part of the Judgment of Sentence.

Do you lose your license for first DUI in Michigan?

Michigan's anti-drunk and drugged driving laws require swift and sure action and stiff penalties for drivers who violated them. The laws require: Courts to decide drunk driving and drugged driving cases within 77 days after the arrest. A mandatory 6-month driver license suspension, even for a first conviction.

What to know before hiring a DUI lawyer?

This includes the willingness to take a DUI case to trial and argue it before a jury. If you do not want to plead guilty or negotiate a plea bargain, you need a lawyer willing to fight for you.

Can a DUI defendant speak to their lawyer?

Unfortunately, one of the biggest complaints from DUI defendants is that they cannot get answers or speak directly to their lawyer. While all lawyers need a dedicate support staff to help with the details and paperwork of a DUI case, your lawyer should be readily available to answer your questions.

Do DUI lawyers pay upfront?

Unlike personal injury lawyers who work on a contingency fee basis, DUI lawyers will want payment upfront or through a payment plan. Make sure you understand the fees and total costs of your defense before hiring a lawyer.

Is it better to plead guilty to a DUI?

Although many DUI offenders may believe it’s simply easier to plead guilty to their DUI charges, given the severe penalties and high fines, this is generally not a good idea. Most DUI offenders should at least meet and consult with a DUI lawyer and determine the strength of the prosecution’s case against them.

Should I consult a DUI lawyer?

Most DUI offenders should at least meet and consult with a DUI lawyer and determine the strength of the prosecution’s case against them. Unfortunately, given the complexity, the scientific evidence, and the experience needed to successfully argue a DUI defense, it’s important to find the right DUI lawyer, one who has the right training ...

Do DUI lawyers go to trial?

If your DUI lawyer is serious about fighting DUI cases they probably have a DUI case scheduled to go on trial. If they do this is your perfect chance to go to court and find out how well your potential lawyer performs.

Do DUI cases need to be pleaded out?

Do some DUI cases need to be pleaded out? Of course, but too many DUI lawyers allow their clients to plead guilty without any real investigation of the DUI evidence. Make sure you hire a lawyer who believes pleading guilty is the last option, not the first.

1. Do You Specialize in DUI Cases?

Some lawyers are general practice attorneys. It’s similar to a surgeon who is a general practitioner.

2. What is Your Training in DUI Cases?

If they specialize in DUI cases, they should also have specialized training.

4. How Accessible Will You Be to Me?

If you choose this lawyer for your case, how accessible will they be to you? In other words, they should be clear about their communication and appointments policies.

5. How Will You Handle My Case?

Your potential attorney should be able to walk you through how they plan to handle your case. That includes whether they think it will be settled or go to trial. If so, they should explain potential courtroom scenarios you can expect.

6. What Are the Possible Outcomes for My Case?

An attorney can never promise a particular outcome for any case. However, they should be able to describe a best, worst, and probable outcome for you.

7. How Do You Charge?

A DUI conviction can leave you with a very costly fine. Understanding up front what your additional lawyer fees will be can help you plan accordingly.

8. Will You Represent Me at the DMV?

When charged with a DUI, you have a criminal case, plus a procedure with the DMV. This is in regards to the suspension of your license.

What to expect from a DWI attorney?

If you’ve never hired a DWI attorney or been charged with driving while intoxicated, you may be wondering what to expect from the process. The best lawyers will walk you through everything before you hire them. They should let you know about the arraignment, filing of motions, hearings, trial, administrative license suspension hearing, and more. You might also want to ask their opinion about pleading guilty, going to trial, etc.

What happens if you are arrested for driving under the influence?

If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence, you’re probably overwhelmed by wondering what the future holds. You may be feeling helpless and wondering what to do next or who can help.

What happens if you are charged with driving while intoxicated?

When charged with driving while intoxicated, you are also dealing with a civil administrative driver’s license suspension. Often times attorneys charge extra for representation in this matter or for obtaining an occupational license for you in the event your license is suspended. Make sure the fees for these items are included in the quote for representation.

Who is Eric Harron?

If you’ve been arrested for a DWI, The Law Office of Eric Harron is ready to help. Eric Harron is an experienced DWI attorney in Austin, TX, with a great reputation among prosecutors and judges in the central Texas area. Take a look at his previous DWI case results and you’ll see the answer is clear. Eric Harron is a great choice when you need a DWI attorney in Austin or surrounding areas. He’ll do everything he can to help you feel comfortable and confident throughout the process of handling your case. Contact us today to set up a free consultation.

Do lawyers charge for a consultation?

Though most lawyers don’t charge for a consultation, there are some who do . In that case, you’ll have to pay for the meeting even if you don’t hire them for your DWI defense. Make sure you know what you’re getting into by asking if the consultation is included in the fee before you schedule the appointment.

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What Is Your Track Record on Winning Cases?

  • It isn't rude to ask an attorney during a consultation how many DUI cases he's won or lost, so be direct. Your potential attorney may separate "wins" into both acquittals and plea bargains, which may be important if you feel that your case may go to trial.
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How Strong Is My Case?

  • The "meat" of most DUI consultations will be a discussion of your case and the attorney's evaluation of the prosecution's case against you. Even if you've allegedly slammed into parked cars while hammered(as one Maryland resident allegedly did, according to the Baltimore News Journal), you need an honest legal opinion. Don't worry about divulging too much. Your attorney …
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What Are My Options?

  • You should ask your potential DUI attorney to run you through the various options for your case including trial, pleading guilty, and diversion programs. A good DUI attorney should be familiar with the various lesser sentences and alternatives to jail timeavailable in your state and county.
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How Much Will It Cost?

  • Most DUI attorneys will work off either a flat fee arrangement, or an hourly ratethat is based on your case and their experience/reputation. If you make too much to afford a public defender, but feel a private attorney may be too costly, speak up. Many DUI attorneys are willing to work out a payment plan during a consultation. Don't know where to start looking for a lawyer? Check out Fi…
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