Tampa DUI Defenders can make it feel like you are being thrown into the den of lions. There are high stakes, and there is a complex legal system. You may be overwhelmed, terrified, or simply confused. Not to worry. Finding the perfect lawyer can make a world of difference.
Imagine yourself driving home following a night of fun with your friends. After a few drinks you feel fine enough to drive. Suddenly you notice flashing red lights in your backview mirror. Your heart beats faster as you stop, and then, before you know, you are taking a roadside breathalyzer. Next thing you realize, you are handcuffed, facing DUI charges.
Now what? First, take a deep breath. Choose an attorney with a thorough understanding of Tampa’s legal system.
How do you go about finding the right lawyer for you? Ask friends or family for recommendations if they’ve had similar experiences. The power of word-ofmouth is that it comes directly from those you trust.
Review online reviews to find out what people are saying about the attorney. Avvo.com or Martindale Hubbell.com provide information about attorneys’ reputations, client reviews and experiences. Keep in mind that not all reviews are positive.
Once you have a list of potential lawyers, arrange consultations. The majority of lawyers will offer you a free initial meeting to discuss your case. This is a great way to get a better feel for the style and approach they use.
During your consultations with them, ask many questions. How many DUIs has the firm handled? What’s their record of success? Do they have any experience in cases that are similar to yours or not? These answers will give a good idea whether or not they are the best choice for your situation.
Be aware of how they communicate during the meeting. They are patient and understanding. Do they communicate clearly and without legal jargons? A good lawyer will make you confident in their abilities and should make them feel comfortable.
You should be aware that not every lawyer charges the same. Some charge flat-rates while others invoice by the hour — and those hours add up quickly! Before you sign any agreement, be sure to know what you’ll pay.
You should also read your agreement carefully. Do not be surprised by the final bill.
A third factor to consider is availability. You want someone who can be there when you need them most, and not just during the business day but also at night or on weekends.
Let’s talk about strategy. Each case is unique and so should the defense plan. Other attorneys may advocate for a court trial, depending on the circumstances around an arrest.
An example is when a friend of mine told the story of getting stopped by police after attending Gasparilla Parade. He said that he was not drunk, yet he failed the roadside tests just because he felt nervous. However, his lawyer proved it convincingly. This resulted in a reduced charge rather than full-blown punishment!
Although it is important to keep realistic expectations, the outcome of each court case can be unpredictable despite clients’ best efforts.
Finding the right attorney comes down to doing your research, trusting your instincts and ultimately making the right decision. Once you’ve made that choice, it’s a case of sticking with what has been laid out collaboratively.