Is a DUI Lawyer Worth It?

Mostly in life, you will have a better grasp of everything when you have a professional either handle, advise, or do the matter for you. So if you’re asking if it’s really worth it to get a Dui lawyer for your case, the answer is YES.

Some of the reasons include the following:

1. From experience alone, a professional DUI lawyer knows what works and what doesn’t in your goal to obtain the results that you want. If you have been charge with DUI for a number of times now, you have probably already noticed the procedures on how DUI cases are being handled. With a lawyer to represent you, you will most probably end up with good results.

2. There is a probability that you’ll pay less if you have a lawyer. There are courts from different states that permit to suspend fines especially for those who are financially challenged accused individuals. Apart from this, your lawyer can also reduce the charges to an infraction that could help save you over $15,000 of fees. In truth, those with DUI lawyers are likely to end up well than those who fail to get an attorney.

3. Criminal matters are for people who know criminal law well – don’t attempt to defend yourself. You need someone who is adept at criminal law and those who will let you understand your constitutional rights. Your rights include unreasonable seizures and unwarranted searches. First, your lawyer must investigate as to whether the authorities have the right to have you pulled over under the Fourth Amendment to the US Constitution. The authorities must also show a probable cause that you were really driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Lastly, they have to show that the breath test used on you is working and calibrated, it was given by a trained officer, and you took it within 3 hours of driving. As you see it, the process is a bit complex, which then leaves your defenses reliant on tests, facts, and the help of your lawyer.

4. A lawyer means having someone to legally speak for you. When the risks are high, all the more that you needed an attorney to represent you. Drunk driving cases can be dismissed when you have a competitive lawyer with you especially if it’s the first time. Note however that if it’s repetitive, you might be looking at hefty fines jail time, and alcohol school. You still better off an experienced and professional lawyer handling your case. Apart from this, a competitive DUI lawyer will not leave any fact unexamined, review your defenses, and will bring justice to your case. That’s how they work.

5. You only have one chance to plead your innocence. Remember this, once you have been given the result of your case, it is done. If you’re proven guilty, which can escalate very quickly if no lawyer will represent you, you will most likely deal with a confiscated and suspended license, criminal records, fines, insurance increases, and alcohol training's that can continue for years. Is a lawyer worth it in your case? Definitely. Things will get worse if you don’t. Plus, you’ll always wonder what would have happened if you hired one.

Everything You Need to Know about Criminal Lawyers

Criminal lawyers also called public defenders do their job in defending individuals and even organizations that have been charged of an illegal violation. These lawyers handle different kinds of criminal cases that mostly range from drugs, sex crimes, murder, domestic violence, to theft, fraud, and driving under influence or DUI.

What are the Duties and Responsibilities of a Criminal Lawyer? 

Defense lawyers stand and speak for a defendant who is confronting criminal charges in federal, state, or appellate courts. Their extent of practice mainly involves appeals, plea bargains, revocation hearings, bail bond hearings, trial, and post-conviction.

Part of a defense lawyer’s duties and responsibilities are the following: 

• They study and investigate about criminal codes, law procedures, and law cases 
• They often make a bargain with the prosecution to either lessen the charges or for a plea bargain agreement 
• They thoroughly and meticulously investigate the case at hand as well as cross examine witnesses presented
• They support the defendant at trial court 
• They develop and create a defense strategy 
• They draft motions such as motion to reconsideration, motion to suppress, and/or motion to dismiss
• They make appeals on behalf of their clients 

Education, Certification, and Training 

In order to practice criminal law and become a criminal lawyer, you must have undergone the following:

• A bachelor’s degree must be completed first in order to achieve a law degree that takes 7 years in total to complete. 
• A lawyer aspirant must pass the bar examination in the state where he intends to practice law. 
• As for certifications, there are criminal lawyers who gained their board certification at a non-profit organization called NBLSC or the National Board of Legal Specialty Certification accredited and recognized by the American Bar Association. 

Job Outlook and Work Schedule

Criminal law is a rising niche that is mainly due to the increasing number of crime rates on a day to day basis. According to studies, over the past 3 decades, a big number of law violators are sentenced to jail. Not to mention the growing population of prisoners in prison cells across countries. This is why the need for Criminal Defense Lawyers also arise in order to defend the accused and the innocent.

Most criminal lawyers work full-time hours either in their solo and established firm or in large private firms. They often work long, extra hours to review, study, and prepare criminal documents.

These long hours also comprise of meeting with clients and witnesses outside the office. There are also those lawyers who work at government offices or different non-profit organizations as public defenders.

Salary

When it comes to salary, it is dependent on the scope and size of practice, geographic location of the firm where a lawyer is working, and the clientele the firm operates. The salaries of public defenders are generally modest, mostly range from 30-50 US dollars. However, those who work at large firms earn higher salaries and are mostly given six figures. Those who handle cases of prominent people enjoy the perks and benefits of having paid the highest.

Ways a Lawyer Can Help You Fight a DUI

It is illegal to drive under the influence in any state. Hence, DUI cases are dealt with in criminal court. If you are charged with a DUI, you can either represent yourself or get a lawyer to defend you. If you cannot hire a private lawyer, the court will appoint a public defender for you.

Then again, even though you may choose to represent yourself, it is much better to get a lawyer with adequate legal experience and training. This way, the weaknesses and strengths of your case will be assessed properly.

Keep in mind that DUI law is quite complicated and changes constantly. Also, judges do not have much patience for defendants that represent themselves yet are not aware of the rules of court. So, if you lack trial skills and legal knowledge, you should seek help from a lawyer.

Hiring a private lawyer can be expensive. The cost typically ranges from $1,000 to $5,000. However, if you do not have a lawyer, you may end up spending more money if your case goes to trial. In addition, having private counsel can help you minimize your court appearances. So, your job or business will not suffer.

DUI lawyers usually offer free consultation. Even if you are asked for a small fee, it is still likely to be worth it. See to it that you bring all necessary documents, such as police reports, when you make a consultation. Do not hesitate to ask questions that are relevant to your case.

Some people think that it is not really necessary to get a lawyer if it is only the first offense, especially if the defendant does not have any prior DUI convictions or if his offense did not involve aggravating factors such as high blood alcohol content, accidents, property damage, endangerment of a child, and injuries. After all, the standard offer is the same whether or not the defendant has a lawyer.

However, getting a lawyer can still prove to be more beneficial. Your DUI lawyer may point out weaknesses or flaws in the case to lower the standard offer. He may also bring certain mitigating factors to the attention of the prosecutor.

Your lawyer can also help you with certain requirements, such as SR-22 auto insurance. He may also help you with any treatment programs or alcohol education that is necessary to get your driving privileges back.

In the event that you have viable defenses and accepting the standard offer is not ideal, your lawyer can help you realize such defenses. Thus, your case can have a much better outcome. You may get a better plea deal or have your charges dismissed altogether.

Likewise, if your lawyer is familiar with the judges and district attorneys, chances are he also knows about their tendencies. This can greatly help you with plea deals.

In conclusion, if you have a DUI case, you should not go to trial by yourself if you want to have a favorable outcome. Remember that your DUI charge may have severe consequences on your freedom, as well as finances.

Steps To Help You Find A Good Lawyer

There are many situations in which you might need to hire an attorney. It doesn't matter what your circumstances are or what legal problem you're dealing with, it is important to hire a lawyer. The success of your case may very well depend on whether or not you hire a lawyer.

Not only is hiring a lawyer important, but finding and using the right one is just as important. If you don't know how to find a good lawyer, then don't worry. Below are the steps you'll want to take to find and choose one.

1. Know What Kind Of Attorney You Need-  Not all attorneys can help you with your situation. If you need a will created or updated, then a lot of attorneys can help. However, if you want to fight for custody of your kids, then you don't want to hire a tax attorney or a criminal attorney or a personal injury attorney. Figure out what kind of lawyer you need before doing anything.

2. Find Local Attorneys- Find local attorneys. Make a list of the ones you find. Don't worry because this doesn't take long to do, so don't skip this step.

3. Referrals- Do you know someone who has used an attorney? If so, ask them who they used and what kind of lawyer they used. Ask everyone you know whether or not they've ever used a lawyer, and then you can contact the ones that specialize in the area of law that is relevant to your case.

4. Read Reviews- Referrals are good, but you also want to read reviews on the internet. Reviews can help you narrow down your choices. If you don't want to let anybody you know that you need an attorney, then simply read reviews about lawyers. Just make sure the review sites you use are reputable and verify their reviews.

5. Verify The Lawyers' Background- Before hiring an attorney, make sure they can practice law in your state. If you live in an area that borders another state and if your legal issues crosses state lines, then you will want to hire a lawyer who can practice law in your state and the other state. Also, you'll want to know whether or not any complaints were lodged against the attorneys before you decide to hire them.

6. What Is Your Budget- The next step is to determine what your budget is. Be realistic about how much you can afford to spend on your legal issue. There are attorneys who do work on a contingency basis, which means they only get paid if they successfully win your case.

However, lawyers who work on a contingency basis usually only work on cases which involves settlements. This is why you need to ask the attorneys what their fees are. Do this either via the phone or email.

7. Schedule A Free Consultation- After you have narrowed down your list to three attorneys, it's time to meet them in person. Only book a meeting with attorneys that have free initial consultations. You want to meet an attorney face-to-face because you'll get a feel for how they are and how comfortable you feel with them.

8. Choose One- You don't have all the time in the world when it comes to finding and choosing an attorney. Eventually you do have to make a decision, which is the final step. After you meet with your top three choices, you'll want to make a final decision. Take a good day or two to think about it and then you can decide which one to hire.

Finding an attorney starts with knowing what kind of lawyer you need, and then you'll want to locate professionals that serve your area. Don't forget to ask for referrals from people you know and then take the time to read reviews. This will help you narrow down your list.

Also, check the attorneys' backgrounds and then schedule a consultation with the attorneys who have made it onto your shortlist. Ask them how much they charge and ask them any other questions you can think of. After you do all of those things, then it's time to make a decision.