Talk to an attorney now
Talk to an attorney now
Arizona has strict DUI laws with severe consequences. If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence, you’ll need a skilled attorney on your side. The sooner you speak with one, the better they can assist you with your case.
The best way to find a quality attorney is to know what to ask them at your consultation. We’ll cover how to find the best DUI lawyer in Mesa and questions to ask potential candidates when you meet with them.
Your DUI lawyer should meet certain standards to improve your odds of receiving a lighter sentence or dismissed charges. Below, we’ll cover some qualities to make sure your lawyer has:
Solid User Reviews
One of the best ways to find out about a professional is to research what previous clients have to say about working with them. With the Internet, it’s easier than ever to find reviews for a particular law firm or lawyer. In addition, you should ask your potential lawyer what their track record for DUI cases is like. Some law firms keep records of their past successful cases, which can ease your mind if you choose to work with them.
Keep in mind that you shouldn’t choose a lawyer based solely on other people’s experiences. You should meet the lawyer, talk with them about your case, and decide that they’re a good fit before you select one.
Affordable Charges
Legal services can get costly depending on what you need, so plan to make an investment for your DUI defense. One of the main reasons people seek legal assistance is to avoid further costs, so choosing a lawyer you can afford makes the most sense. Ask the law firm if they have an option for a payment plan if paying the fee in monthly installments would work better for you.
Local
While you can work with a remote lawyer and will have plenty of options online to choose from, selecting a local lawyer is better. A legal professional in your area will likely have experience with the specific court handling your DUI charges. They’re also likelier to be familiar with the district attorneys and judges, which could help your case.
Good Communication Skills
When it comes to choosing a good lawyer, credentials are only part of the picture. The one you choose to work with should have great communication skills. This will give you a better shot at securing a favorable outcome in court when they argue for your case. Plus, good communication skills will ease your mind as you’re navigating the legal process with your attorney.
Clean Ethical Record
A lawyer’s ethical record is another important factor to look into before you choose to work with one. Check to see if the professional you’re considering has disciplinary action by the state on their record. You’ll want to investigate to make sure the lawyer has a good reputation with the State Bar in your area. Go to their website to research your attorney to see if they have a history of malpractice.
Extensive Experience with DUI Cases
While any lawyer can defend you, it’s best to choose one with plenty of experience handling DUI cases. An experienced lawyer will be able to guide you based on their deep knowledge of the related legal process. They’ll be familiar with cases just like yours and know exactly what to do based on their experience. They’ll have the confidence and skill to guide and represent you during this challenging time.
When you’re speaking with a DUI lawyer, take that time to learn about their experience and background. You’ll have a chance to ask them questions at your consultation. This is a good time to find out what their strategy will be for handling your case, and what they expect the outcome to be. Ask the attorney what procedures are likely to be involved and how long they think your case will take to get resolved.
Additionally, you can inquire about the number of DUI cases they have worked on and their track record representing clients, and how often the lawyer appears in the court where your case is taking place. As mentioned, it can be valuable for your attorney to have experience with the local courts.
Your attorney should be able to tell you whether you should go to trial, whether it’s possible to get a plea agreement, and which factors are in your favor or against you. Find out whether the lawyer you’re speaking with is available to represent you or whether it will be someone else. If it’s someone else, see if you can meet them. Asking these questions will help you make sure the lawyer’s strategy aligns with your personal goals for the case.
You can also take this opportunity to ask about what the attorney includes in their rate and whether they bill with a flat fee or by the hour. In addition, find out what your options for payment are.
Having a DUI on your record can limit your future professional opportunities and end up costing you a fortune in fines and additional insurance costs. If you were charged with a DUI in Mesa, the first thing you should do is call an attorney. Facing the courts by yourself is too risky, and a skilled DUI lawyer will ensure your rights are upheld.
Penalties in Arizona are severe for drivers who operate a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. You might face fines, probation, jail time, or a license suspension in addition to higher insurance costs. While working with an attorney is an investment, they’ll increase your odds of receiving a reduced sentence, which can mean lower fines and potentially avoiding jail. In some cases, a DUI attorney can help you have your charges dismissed altogether.
It’s especially important to speak with a legal professional if you’ve been charged with a felony crime. Give us a call today to see how we can assist you with your case.