If you’re in a position where you need a DUI defense lawyer, there is no time to procrastinate. A great deal of preparation is necessary to build a strong defense, and hiring skilled legal counsel is vital. While time is a factor, you mustn’t be too impulsive when reaching a decision. Before retaining a DUI lawyer, it’s important to research and ask questions to guarantee they have the necessary experience to defend you in court. Laws surrounding DUIs should not be taken lightly, and you’ll want to be sure that the attorney you partner with is dedicated to securing the most beneficial outcome possible in your case.
If you’re confronted with a DUI charge in Montgomery County or across Southeastern Pennsylvania, call a DUI defense lawyer at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. to learn your legal rights and viable defense strategies over a free case review.
Top 7 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a DUI Lawyer
When meeting with an attorney for a consultation, be sure to ask the following questions to learn whether they’re a good match for your legal requirements.
1. How Long Have You Been Representing DUI Clients?
One of the first questions you want to ask is how many years your attorney has been practicing DUI law. You’ll also want to ask related questions such as:
- What’s the average number of cases you take on each year?
- How much trial experience do you have?
- What percentage of your caseload is focused on DUIs?
Ideally, you want an attorney with a caseload almost entirely concentrated on DUIs. An attorney who frequently handles DUI cases will know of any alterations to local DUI laws that pertain to you.
2. What Is Your Success Rate?
Before your free case review, do some research ahead of time and read reviews from past clients to get a feel for their success rate. Ideally, you’ll be able to hire an attorney who consistently has happy customers and successful outcomes with cases like yours.
During your consultation with a DUI attorney, ask how many of their cases have resulted in the charges being dismissed for the client. Also, ask how many DUI cases they were able to negotiate down to reckless driving charges.
3. Are You Familiar with the Local Courts?
Ensure that your attorney practices locally in your county. When a DUI lawyer knows the prosecuting attorneys and who may be assigned to your case, they are familiar with the kinds of plea deals and negotiations that are potentially possible, and which could significantly affect your case.
At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C., our attorneys are nationally and locally recognized year after year as a “Best Law Firm” by U.S. News & World Report. When you work with our DUI attorneys, you partner with lawyers widely respected by our clients and within the legal community.
4. How Much Are Your Legal Fees?
Find out whether your attorney charges an hourly rate or a flat fee. Often, you’ll find that DUI defense attorneys charge a flat fee, but this may vary. Find out whether there are any extra costs associated with your case—like paying for expert witness fees, for example. Early on, you want to be very clear how and when you’ll be billed for your attorney’s legal services so there are no surprises.
5. Will You Represent Me at My DMV Hearing?
When you’re charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania, there is a criminal case where you’re tried for the crime of driving under the influence. If you refused a breath or blood test, there could also be the need for an additional DMV hearing, which deals exclusively with an additional suspension of your driver’s license. You may want the same attorney to represent you at the DMV hearing as well as your criminal case. Again, be sure to inquire how this is handled in your attorney’s fees at your consultation.
6. Will You Be the One Handling My Case?
Not all DUI attorneys work the same way. While some are dedicated solely to your case, others collaborate with associates on their legal team. Keep in mind that most DUI defense lawyers who exclusively handle their own cases may require a higher fee than those supported by a group.
You want to be sure that your case gets the attention it deserves. Should your lawyer work with a team, find out who will do the work on your case and who will be with you in court.
7. What Are the Potential Outcomes of My Case?
You want to be prepared for what outcomes are realistically possible in your case. During your consultation, ask your DUI lawyer how they will potentially handle your case based on your case’s surrounding circumstances. A few questions to ask in this regard include:
- Do you expect my DUI case to go to trial?
- How likely is achieving a favorable plea deal?
- Is there any evidence in my case that should or could be suppressed?
Call an Experienced Southeast Pennsylvania DUI Lawyer for a Free Case Review
When you face a DUI charge in Southeast Pennsylvania, you need qualified legal representation with experience and a positive track record of favorable case results similar to yours. The DUI lawyers at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. possess the necessary skills and experience that offer a unique approach to your legal situation. We have the time and resources required to provide your case with the focused interest it deserves.
When you meet with our DUI defense lawyers during your free initial consultation, we will review your case’s details and advise you of your legal rights and what we recommend so you can resolve your matter with the most favorable outcome. To speak with a seasoned DUI defense lawyer over a free case review, complete a contact form or call (215) 822-7575.
