Once you find the best DUI lawyers and have narrowed them down to a shortlist, it is important to take the time to meet each one. You need to establish if they have the necessary expertise and experience to prove a good DUI attorney, and a good attorney for your particular DUI case.
Your case may involve issues that require skills and experience over above the “usual” DUI defense. Most people will not be able to judge this for themselves. Only a lawyer will be qualified to determine if there are any special circumstances requiring special expertise.
Another reason to meet in person with prospective DUI attorneys is to determine if they are someone that you can work with.
You will not benefit from hiring the best DUI lawyer if this is not the case. You will need to feel at ease with your lawyer, understand what is happening with your case at all times, and feel comfortable asking questions. One of the signs of a good lawyer – for DUI cases as well as any other kind of case – is that all three apply.
Before you meet with potential DUI lawyers for your case:
- Prepare a summary of the circumstances under which you were arrested, as well as details of any previous DWI/DUI related charges or convictions, to bring with you.
- Be prepared to control the interview. Remember that you are meeting to assess the lawyer, not to hire a lawyer. However good they may seem it is important to interview all your top choices and allow yourself time to consider which really is the best DUI attorney.
- Thirdly, write down/print out your questions for the DUI attorney, and bring a pen and notepad to jot down their responses.
- Dress respectably – you want to be taken seriously.
After your meeting, jot down any further points that might affect your decision about whether or not they are the best DUI lawyer for you. Include personal impressions too. Remember, your ability to get along with your lawyer may impact the outcome of your case.
Remember too that if you don’t feel at ease or get along with a lawyer it is quite possible that other people don’t either. This matters because in the course of your defense a DUI lawyer will interact with many people, within their law firm as well as the court system. Although it should not be the case, it is a fact of life that a lawyer’s personality can affect the smooth running (or otherwise) of legal cases.
If you felt at all uncomfortable or ill at ease during your meeting, strike the DUI lawyer off your shortlist. They may be one of the best DUI lawyers, but they are not the best for you.