Choosing a DUI attorney to help with your DUI case can be an overwhelming task. DUI attorney ads are everywhere and they all claim they are the greatest attorney in town. So how does a person begin to try to find a good attorney, one that is the best fit for them and their case? Follow these simple steps and use our DUI Attorney Checklist to make your decision easier.
Step 1: Start by reading client reviews. These client reviews may be listed on the lawyer’s website or on other reputable review websites such as AVVO.com and Yelp.com. Reading client reviews will give you a general impression of the attorney’s character, compassion level, and work ethic. However, be forewarned that not all client reviews are real! Some attorneys have paid companies to write fake reviews to make themselves and their law firm to appear better than what they really are. If client reviews sound too good to be true, than they generally are too good to be true. Reviews that lack personality or fail to make some type of personal connection with the attorney are most likely fake as well.
Now, after reading through some client reviews, hopefully it would have helped narrow your search of attorneys that could potentially meet your legal needs.
Step 2: Call to schedule an in person meeting and legal consultation with the attorneys. If possible, meet with at least 2-3 attorneys in person so you can get a good idea of who is the best fit for you and your case. It is very important you choose an attorney that you feel comfortable with and confident in their ability to look out for your best interest.
Most DUI and criminal defense attorneys offer free consultations at their offices to talk about your case and answer questions. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, the best and most qualified lawyers will welcome your questions.
Step 3: Bring the DUI Attorney Checklist to each of your legal consultations. It is up to you if you would like to fill it out during the meeting or after, but it will be handy to have at the meeting so you can ask all the appropriate questions.
DUI Attorney Checklist
The law firm only practices DUI and criminal defense.
The lawyer you are speaking with has represented many individuals that have faced DUI charges.
They will take your DUI case to trial if necessary and have ample DUI trial experience.
You feel that the attorney listens well and they have answered all your questions with ease and clarity.
The attorney speaks clearly and they tell you about your legal options in a manner that you can understand.
The law firm appears well-organized and the lawyers are dressed professionally and present themselves well.
The law firm was easy to contact by phone or email and they replied in a timely manner.
The attorney did not quote a legal fee over the phone or make promises about your case prior to meeting in person.
The attorney clearly explained the cost of representation.
You felt confident in the attorney’s professional abilities.
You felt respected by the attorney.
You felt comfortable talking with the attorney.
Which ever attorney receives the most check marks from this checklist is most likely the best fit for you and your DUI case. Call David O Defense today 206-459-6392, to schedule a free legal consultation if you are facing a DUI charge. Don’t forget to bring your DUI Attorney Checklist, to make choosing a DUI attorney easier!