The prospect of a DUI charge is like being thrown straight into the lion’s mouth. It’s a high-stakes game, and the system is full of confusing rules and regulations. You might feel scared, confused or overwhelmed. Do not worry. You are not alone. Finding Tampa DUI Defenders makes a big difference.
Imagine that you are driving home from a party with friends. You’ve been drinking a little, but still feel fine. The flashing light appears in your rearview. Your heart is racing as you pull off the road, and you are soon taking a breathalyzer on the side. You are soon handcuffed and facing DUI charges.
Now what? First, breathe. The best attorney to choose is one who knows Tampa’s courts like the palm of their hand.
How can you find the right lawyer? You can start by asking family or friends who’ve experienced similar circumstances for recommendations. Because it’s coming from people you can trust, word-of mouth is a valuable resource.
Next, research online reviews and rating. Avvo or Martindale Hubbell provide insights into attorneys’ reputations as well as client experiences. Be careful to not take anything too seriously. Just because a review is negative doesn’t mean the attorney can’t do their job.
Set up initial consultations once you’ve narrowed the list down. Most lawyers offer free consultations where you can talk about your case, and get a sense of their style.
During the consultations ask a lot of questions. How many DUI case have they handled so far? What is their rate of success? Are they familiar with similar cases to yours and theirs? The answers you receive will help determine if this lawyer is the best fit for your case.
You should also pay attention to their communication with you. Are they understanding and patient? Do they use legal jargon or do they speak clearly? You should be confident in the abilities of a good lawyer.
Remember that not all attorneys charge the same amount. Some charge flat fees while others bill hourly–and these hours can add up fast! You should be clear about the cost before you sign anything.
Speaking of contracts, make sure you read them! You don’t need any surprises at the end of your bill.
It is important to have someone available for you at all times, not just during office hours, but even on evenings and weekends.
Let’s start with the strategy. Every case is different, and so must be its defense. Some lawyers may recommend negotiating a deal, while others will push for trial depending upon the circumstances surrounding an arrest (such as field sobriety testing results).
As an example, a friend once told his story about being pulled over while attending Gasparilla Parade. (A big deal in the area!). He failed roadside testing due to his nerves, but his lawyer was able to prove that he had been sober. The result? A reduced charge instead of full conviction.
Even though the court system is unpredictable, clients can still have unrealistic expectations.
So, finding the right lawyer is all about doing some research and trusting gut instincts. Choosing wisely amongst options presented then working collaboratively to achieve the best possible outcome under circumstances.