There is a nationwide television campaign designed to curb drunk driving.  It’s called “Over the Limit, Under Arrest”.  Guess what?  They ain’t kidding.

Being arrested for driving while under the influence is a traumatic experience.  Almost instantly the feeling of regret and that you should have known better start to sink in.  Something else that should sink in is the fact that you have been arrested for a crime and could be faced with losing your license or even serving time in jail.  You need a DUI attorney and you need one now.

Choosing the right DUI attorney may be the difference between paying a fine and going to jail, so do not take this decision lightly.  You will want to speak with a number of attorneys that specialize in drunk driving defense.  Initial consultations are usually free, so you will have an opportunity to ask a lot of questions to a lot of attorneys.

What should you ask?

Here is a list of questions that you should be asking in order to make the best decision on who will represent you.

How long have you been practicing law?
Don’t let age fool you.  Just because a person is up there in years doesn’t mean that they have been practicing law for long.  Many people go to law school late in life.

How much experience do you have defending DUI cases?
Only hire a lawyer that you feel has enough experience to defend you.  this is your life we’re talking about.

Have you dealt with any DUI cases like mine?
He most likely has, so follow up by asking what the outcome of those cases were.

How many times have you gone to trial for a DUI case?
There is a chance that your case will go to trial.  Make sure that your attorney has the experience to persuade a jury, if necessary.

What are the potential costs of my case?
The attorney should be able to give you at least an educated estimate.  Don’t let him beat around the bush and avoid this question.

How will you keep me informed of information relating to my case?
Communication is important.  You don’t want to find yourself with an attorney that takes weeks to return a telephone call.

How do you see my case turning out?
There is no way for the attorney to know exactly how your DUI case will turn out.  If he offers you a guarantee, then he is dishonest and you should move on.

Be sure to tell the attorneys every relevant piece of information about your case.  Stick to the topic at hand.  This is an interview for what might be one of the most important hirings of your life.