4 Key Things to Look at Before You Hire a DUI Lawyer in Bothell, WA
DUI (driving under the influence) of alcohol or illegal drugs is one of the criminal offenses under the law. It aims to control vehicle operations after using drugs or drinking alcohol.
While DUI laws vary from state to state, DUI offenses in Washington may lead to jail time, loss of driving privileges, and hefty penalties. You may also choose to enlist the services of an attorney to deal with the case. However, having a professional and experienced DUI lawyer can be helpful in various situations.
Every fact pattern and case is created differently. Some need to go to court, whereas others just need a plea bargain. If you are unsure of where to start, look at the following factors to choose and hire the best DUI attorney in Bothell:
Experience
An experienced attorney can review the evidence presented and give you legal advice on whether it is best to reject or accept a plea deal. Your lawyer must be better positioned to present you with possible outcomes for various scenarios concerning the penalties and sentencing you will likely face when you decline or accept a plea.
Many DUI charges are settled out of court. Your attorney will tell you whether or not your type of case needs to go to court. While the decision is entirely for you to make, you will need an experienced lawyer by your side.
Communication
Like other relationships, finding the right DUI lawyer for your type of case need a dependable line of communication and open exchange. Although it isn’t reasonable to expect your lawyer to respond to your texts or phone calls, it will be best to make sure you wait for 24 or 48 hours to get a response to your concerns or questions you might have.
Express those concerns when talking to the potential DUI lawyer you want to hire, and make sure that you may depend on them to respond whenever a response is required.
Expertise
Many attorneys specialize in several fields, where they often cover a diverse number of categories or topics. The most established categories include civil law and criminal law.
DUI falls under criminal law. Because of that, you must look for a professional DUI lawyer in Bothell who has ever represented clients in several criminal cases than civil ones. You must also find an attorney from Washington, as the regulations and laws vary from one state to another.
Reviews and References
Before you settle on a lawyer, ensure previous clients were happy working with them and the outcome of their cases. Talk also to your family members and friends to recommend someone they have ever worked with before.
Look online if you don’t have personal recommendations. Your main focus should be to find someone in the city because they better understand the laws applying to the same area.
Conclusion!
DUI laws can be complex and severe. This is why it is best to research before you decide to hire a DUI lawyer in Bothell.