In a given year, around 1.5 million Americans were arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This indicates that one in every 121 licensed drivers was arrested for drunk driving. This figure varies from year to year. But one thing is certain: thousands of drivers make mistakes that may cost them their licenses and force them to go through a lengthy legal process. If you’re one of them, you already know that hiring the best DWI lawyer is the most crucial thing you can do for your case and your future.

However, finding a trustworthy and dependable attorney is not always easy. You must ensure that they have your best interests in mind at all times.

So, what do you need to check when making appointments with legal professionals? Here are nine characteristics of a quality DWI lawyer.

1. Experience With DWI Cases

Before you schedule a consultation with any lawyer, make sure they’re well versed with cases like yours. Look for an expert with a proven history of DWI cases in your area.

Through this, you’ll have confidence in their ability to represent your interests. Experience will allow them to know which arguments to make and argue on your behalf in court.

By choosing an attorney who is only familiar with other areas of law, you may lack the type of representation you deserve. They won’t fully understand the ins and outs of the law related to DWI.

2. Good Communication Skills

It’s a DWI attorney’s duty to argue your case in front of the court. This means they should communicate your side of the story clearly.

Be attentive to the lawyer’s communication skills as you begin your search. They should be fast to respond to your questions.

The best attorney will be ready to communicate with you any time you reach out to them.

3. Affordable Charges

Different criminal defense lawyers charge different rates for their services. The rates depend on their experience working on cases like yours, the complexity of the case, and what’s expected in the area.

Before choosing a legal representative, consider how they charge for their work. They should explain comprehensively. Compare the charges offered by several attorneys and go for the one you feel is suitable for you.

4. A Local Office and Law Practice

There’re several attorneys that operate on a national or statewide basis. Keep in mind that law varies from state to state. You therefore need to choose an attorney who is well versed with the laws in your area.

Hiring an attorney with a local office will help you know the team will represent your case more effectively. Local offices are also more accessible even when you are doing other duties.

5. Good Reputation

A good DWI attorney must have a positive reputation in both the legal field and the community. Read reviews online and learn what other people are saying about their work and knowledge in the legal field.

Where most of the comments are positive, you’ll likely have a good experience working with the lawyer. To get unbiased feedback from clients, visit Better Business Bureau.

It’s also important to ask each lawyer for references. Previous customers may provide you with information about the attorney’s work.

Follow up on those references. Consider working with them if the majority of them would choose the lawyer again. If the majority of people are dissatisfied, keep looking.

6. Should Be Committed

An attorney with total commitment to your case is important and shows they take your needs seriously. The lawyer should defend your best interest and continue researching to find a solution that will help win your case.

Before hiring a lawyer, learn about any other commitments they have. Depending on how fast you need the case out of the court, choose one who is available as soon as possible. Go for a lawyer who will offer their services and will not require to be followed up.

7. Knowledge and Training in DWI Cases

Anyone could represent you in court if they are certified to practice law. For better results, it’s key to have an attorney with a legal team that understands DWI laws with confidence to defend you in court adequately.

An attorney with the needed knowledge and skills gives you the best chance of winning and possibly avoiding a conviction for DWI charges.

8. Should Be Transparent

When you reach out to a DWI attorney, you’ll want to know what to expect. This includes the chances of winning your case.

A lawyer should be transparent with you from the beginning. A good attorney will request you to provide detailed information from your first call so that they can be honest and manage your expectations at all times.

The attorney should keep you updated with the case proceedings so that you’ll have an idea of what to expect.

9. Confidentiality

The main reason for picking a lawyer is to be aware that you can tell them anything, and they can’t betray your trust. These experts take an oath to keep all information about their clients confidential, which is important to winning your case.

Hire the Best DWI Lawyer for Your Case Today

If you want legal help to get through a DWI charge, you should look for a seasoned DWI lawyer as early as possible. The sooner you act, the simpler it will be to mount a defense case.

Just keep these important characteristics in mind when speaking with legal professionals. When you find an attorney who possesses all of them, you’ll know you’re in the best possible hands.

Deandra Grant Law is dedicated to offering an experienced criminal defense for your case, with a proven track record of successfully handling countless DWI cases.

Contact us today to book an appointment.