If you’ve been arrested for driving while intoxicated in Minnesota it’s crucial that you begin the process of searching for an experienced attorney to represent you. Given how much is on the line in terms of fines, penalties and even jail time, you need an attorney on your side as soon as possible.
Now, if you’re like most people you may not have much if any experience hiring an attorney. If you’ve never had a brush with the law before, the prospect of finding and hiring a lawyer may seem daunting. If so, take a deep breath and consider some of the following advice for how to pick the right attorney to represent you.
Where to start looking?
The first step in your DWI Defense is selecting a lawyer. Begin by drawing up a list of names that you’d like to meet with and interview. The only way you’ll know who might be a good fit is by meeting with them and asking the important questions that are on your mind. So how do you draw up the list? Start by asking friends or family members for recommendations. Do you know anyone who has had to hire a DWI attorney in the past? How about a friend who works in the legal world? You can also do some searching online. Look for those with demonstrated experience and expertise handling Minnesota drunk driving cases. Finally, someone local with a real understanding of your city might also be useful to help narrow the scope of your search.
What should I bring?
Once you’ve come up with a list of attorneys to meet with it’s a good idea to go into the appointment with some documents to make the most of your time. Be sure to bring any court documentation that you have received so the attorney can be brought up to speed as quickly as possible. Also, any bail papers, police reports or other legal documents you have received as part of your case can be useful. By coming prepared you can save a lot of time later and allow your attorney to hit the ground running.
What questions should I ask?
Besides bringing the above documents, it is also a good idea to bring a list of questions so you don’t forget to ask anything important. Think about things that are weighing on your mind and ask them. Issues such as the attorney’s amount of experience and practice area concentrations can be important to find out. Take note of how the attorney reacts and how you feel during the meeting. Did you feel listened to? Respected? Or was the attorney trying to hurry you out of the office? Feel free to ask questions about how many DWI cases they have handled in the past and how often they appear in court regarding such matters.
Is this a good fit?
When trying to hire a DWI Attorney in Minnesota it’s important to avoid choosing anyone who you feel you cannot communicate with. If the attorney does not listen to your questions or does not answer what was asked, that’s a sign of trouble. Another thing to watch for is if, during your initial meeting, the attorney makes big promises that you feel he or she may not be able to keep. Be suspicious if a DUI lawyer promises you a certain result. Though they may be experienced, no one can guarantee that you will avoid a conviction and a good attorney will be honest with you about your chances.
A Minneapolis, MN DWI Lawyer who cares
Having practiced law in the area of alcohol related driving offenses for over 19 years I have met with and represented thousands of DUI clients with regard to their new charges. Understandably, most potential clients come to an initial meeting scared and full of anxiety for what lies ahead. I have found that most people just want an honest assessment of their situation and how my law firm can best assist them.
We take great pride and making sure each and every individual is fully advised of the current law with regard to their case and all possible legal defenses that can be raised on their behalf. Most importantly, the initial meeting is an opportunity for us to get to know you and who you really are outside of the brief moment in time that brought you to our office. This is also extremely important because any judge that may preside over a DWI case will want the attorney to tell them about their client, before making any sentencing decisions.
One of the things we strongly believe is that our clients deserve an attorney that is going to give them straight-talk, but also a law firm that will aggressively defend their drunk driving related offense to get the best possible outcome. If you find yourself in a situation that you need to find a lawyer to handle your alcohol related driving offense, feel free to contact our defense team for a free initial case review.
