Michael DiCindio | April 29, 2022 | DUI

8 Tips for Hiring a DUI Lawyer

Most people don’t plan to drive while under the influence. But mistakes, poor choices, and unfortunate circumstances can lead to a situation you never planned for. And when that happens, you need to hire a quality DUI lawyer who can help you in your defense.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, around 1.5 million people are arrested any given year for driving while intoxicated in the U.S. If you find yourself among this number, you are definitely not alone. Keep reading for some tips on how to get a reliable DUI attorney on your side.

1. Pick Someone with DUI Experience

You can’t simply hire any type of attorney and assume you will be successful. For a DUI case, you want and need a DUI attorney. Narrow your list to only those with actual DUI experience. That way, they can fully support you and anticipate any problems that might arise. 

2. Check Out Some Testimonials

Once you’ve narrowed your list down to only attorneys with DUI experience, do an internet search for each candidate. If there are testimonials available online, give those some serious consideration. 

A history of happy clients reflects the attorney’s ability to build healthy relationships and win cases. This will give you a basic idea of whether that attorney will be able to help you.

3. Consider Their Relationship with Prosecutors

Once you have narrowed your list down to three or four attorneys who you believe may be a good choice, it’s time to schedule some initial consultations. 

When speaking with each attorney, ask about their relationship with local prosecutors. A history of abrasive or difficult contact with the prosecutors on your case can negatively affect its outcome.

4. Think About the Size of the Firm

A large firm is not a bad thing. But if the firm seems overwhelmed and overbooked, it may not be the perfect fit you are looking for. You might be better off with a smaller firm that can provide more one-on-one attention to your case.

Different firms have different standards and rates. You don’t want to hire an attorney without fully understanding the financial agreement. 

At your consultation, make sure to ask about legal fees, how much they will cost, and when they will be due. This will help you decide whether it’s a good fit for your circumstances.

6. Tell Them About Your Case

When you are speaking with an attorney, it’s important to be clear and direct about the details of your case. Don’t hold anything back out of fear or embarrassment; doing so could negatively affect your case. 

If you have any paperwork or documentation regarding the event, bring it to the consultation. Anything you can do to paint an accurate picture for the attorney will only serve to help you down the road.

7. Pick Someone with Confidence

You may think that your attorney’s personality shouldn’t make a difference, but you give yourself a leg up if you hire someone who exudes confidence. A DUI lawyer who is confident in his ability to defend you will bring that confidence to the courtroom. 

8. Give Yourself Some Time

If you are facing charges, you are on a clock. But if you jump to making an instantaneous decision, you may regret it. 

After you consult with an attorney, go home and give yourself some time to carefully decide. If the law firm pushes you to make a decision too quickly, it may not ultimately be a good fit.

Contact Our DUI Law Firm in West Chester, PA

If you are facing criminal charges and need legal help, contact the West Chester, PA DUI lawyers at DiCindioLaw, LLC to schedule a free initial consultation.

DiCindio Law, LLC
29 S Walnut St
West Chester, PA 19382
(610) 430-3535

***This blog article is made available by the law firm publisher for educational purposes and to provide general information, not to provide specific legal advice. By reading, you understand that there is no attorney-client relationship between you and the publisher. The above-listed information does not include the entire criminal code, annotations, amendments, or any recent changes that may be relevant. The information provided is for informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current legal developments. These materials are not intended, and should not be taken, as legal advice on any particular set of facts or circumstances. Please contact DiCindio Law, LLC for a consultation and to discuss what law is relevant to your case.***