After being charged with drunk driving, your first step should be to contact an attorney experienced in . The outcome of your case is partly determined by the legal representation you hire. In this blog post, we will go over questions you should ask a drunk driving attorney during your initial meeting.
How long have you been practicing criminal law?
The last thing you want is some attorney fresh out of law school representing your case. While everyone has to start somewhere, you don’t need a rookie using your case as a “learning experience”. Hire an attorney that has spent many years practicing law in your state and city.
For example, Attorney Jerry Beurkens has been practicing in Grand Rapids for over 30 years. A DUI attorney who has practiced in your area will know enough about local prosecutors and judges to tweak their tactics and arguments accordingly.
Do you take other types of cases?
Have you ever heard the expression, “jack of all trades, and master of none”? There will always be plenty of attorneys who’ll be more than happy to take your money, but aren’t able to offer the expertise of a DUI attorney.
You want an attorney who has dedicated their career to helping people in your exact same situation. During your interview with a DUI lawyer, be sure to ask them if they take on other types of cases besides . If it seems they offer legal representation for everything under the sun, keep looking.
What percentage of your caseload is devoted to DUI or DWI charges?
Asking this question will give you a good sense of how much experience they have managing cases like yours. While law firms like to offer a huge laundry list of services, they usually have one or two types of cases that they represent the most.
How often do you take your DUI or DWI cases to trial?
The legal are severe. Not only do you face jail time for DUI, but you could also have your driver’s license suspended. The harsh consequences make it even more important to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to represent your case.
If your attorney has a reputation for fighting DUI charges and taking cases to trial, there’s a good chance the prosecutors will reduce the charges. If your case does go to trial, your attorney will do their best to create reasonable doubt surrounding breathalyzer results and the police officer’s testimony. Avoid lawyers who don’t put in the full effort to .
How can I contact you?
The success of your case will partly rest on being able to communicate effectively with your lawyer. Before , make sure you ask them the best way to reach them. Some attorneys prefer email, while others prefer phone calls. Setting up expectations for communication will help make the process go smoothly.
Call Today!
Attorney Jerry Beurkens is a Grand Rapids criminal defense attorney who has helped clients just like you either clear their name or reduce DUI or DWI sentencing. If you are interested in setting up a legal consultation, call our law firm at (616) 459-5344.
This blog post has been updated.
