Top Tips To Pick The Best DUI Lawyer
Have you been charged with a DUI? Luckily, you may not have caused an accident resulting in injury or death. This is also likely your first offense, meaning you might get favorable treatment. Regardless of the circumstances, one thing is clear: you want to protect your rights. That’s why you should enlist a reputable, experienced DUI lawyer in Maine. Here is the key question, though: amidst all this chaos, how do you ensure you pick the best DUI lawyer? Here are simple tips to help you get on the right course.
In-depth local knowledge
Sure, you’ve picked a Maine DUI lawyer, but where exactly in the state do they practice? Portland, perhaps Kennebunk, or Bangor etc. The best way to approach this is to pick a DUI lawyer with deeper local knowledge since the laws can vary slightly from one jurisdiction to the next while it's still in Maine. A lawyer familiar with the local prosecutors, judges, and courts, among others involved in the case, offers an edge to your defense. They’ve some insights an outsider would likely miss that could help your case. For example, a lawyer with in-depth local knowledge can take advantage of local programs to give your case an added advantage, ensuring you get the best possible outcome.
Track record
You’ve checked and ensured that the DUI lawyer has notable years of experience. However, have they only accumulated years in the field, or do they actually have an impressive record to back their practice? Do they even specialize in DUI and criminal cases, or are they more of a jack of all trades? See if they actively represent clients in the DUI field. If they do, check their previous cases and see if they have a good record of securing favorable outcomes. The number of DUI cases they’ve successfully handled matters more than the years of experience. Such a track record means they’ve honed the skills needed to secure their clients better outcomes, and you are likely the next in that line of happy clients.
Reputation
Checking a lawyer’s credentials is a no-brainer, but do they have a good reputation? Sure, the DUI lawyer is licensed, but have they had disciplinary issues? If they do, are they resolved, and if you inquire about it, do they offer straightforward responses? Such a check can help you avoid unscrupulous practitioners who will only waste your time. Another quick way to determine their reputation is by reading through user reviews and checking the ratings. You can confidently enlist their services if the lawyer has many positive testimonials and star ratings.
The price tag
One of the key reasons to hire a DUI lawyer in Maine is because they can save you more time and money. However, you still need to ensure their services align with your budget. This means you should check how much they charge and the payment structure; otherwise, they might have to terminate the services mid-way because you can’t afford to pay. Don’t pick the cheapest lawyer, though, because that might mean they won’t be as committed to your case or aren’t experienced. The tip here is to find a lawyer offering a flexible payment structure that won’t strain your budget and who’ll offer exceptional services.
After you’ve ticked the above boxes, don’t forget to consider compatibility. Do you feel comfortable talking to them? Remember, the DUI lawyer will be your partner in the sensitive case, which requires honesty. You might hurt your case if you don’t trust them enough to tell them everything. Therefore, it is best to pick a DUI lawyer in Maine you actually feel comfortable talking to about anything.
