If you have been arrested for allegedly driving under the influence (DUI) in Arizona, it is critical to choose the right Surprise DUI attorney to represent you. A DUI conviction can have wide-ranging effects on your future, including adverse impacts on your financial situation, career and freedom. Choosing the right attorney can make all the difference to the outcome of your case.
Look for DUI Defense Specialization
Driving under the influence cases are complex. Your defense lawyer should have years of experience specifically in this practice area in order to successfully represent you. Having an experienced attorney can be invaluable when faced with potentially life-changing DUI charges. Substantial experience will give you an advantage, as your lawyer will be familiar with Arizona’s DUI laws, local judges and prosecutors.
Don’t Overlook Reputation
To find the best DUI defense attorney for you, examine a lawyer’s reputation within your city and the larger legal community. The criminal defense lawyer you hire should have a history of achieving successful case results for clients as well as positive client testimonials. It can also help your defense to hire an attorney with a reputation for fighting relentlessly on behalf of his or her clients.
Seek Out Trial Experience
Not all DUI defense attorneys are created equal. Some follow the practice of recommending to every client to take a plea deal or settlement regardless of the circumstances. The lawyer you hire should be willing to take your case to trial if this is in your best interests rather than only recommending a plea bargain. Look for an attorney with real trial experience and cases won before a judge and jury in Arizona.
Search for Personalized Counsel
The lawyer you choose should not use a one-size-fits-all approach to DUI defense. He or she should take the time to customize your defense strategy based on the unique aspects of your specific case. Personalized legal services are the only way to reliably achieve the best possible results for a case. Look for a law firm that intentionally maintains a small caseload so that your lawyer will have the ability to dedicate individualized attention to your case.
Assess the Lawyer’s Communication Skills
You may be dealing with a lot of stress and uncertainty after being arrested for an alleged DUI in Arizona. How your defense attorney communicates with you can make a major difference to your state of mind during this difficult time. Look for a lawyer who communicates effectively. Your DUI defense attorney should listen to your concerns, explain the details of your case clearly, give you an honest assessment of your options, be readily available to answer your questions and never guarantee future success.
Ask About Fee Structure
Do not be afraid to ask about a DUI attorney’s fee structure upfront. How much the lawyer’s services will cost you should be made clear before you are required to sign anything. You should never be subjected to surprise costs or hidden fees at the conclusion of your DUI case.
Schedule a Free Consultation and Bring Questions
If you are searching for the ideal criminal defense lawyer to represent you during a DUI case in Arizona, schedule a free consultation with your top choice. Bring a list of questions to ask the attorney regarding his or her practice-area experience, past case results, credentials, reputation and fee structure. Overall, you should feel confident in your defense attorney’s ability to protect you when facing DUI charges.