What should I look for in a DUI attorney and why?

In Wisconsin a first offence OWi (= dui) IS NOT a criminal offense. This state is probably unique in that way. No jail time attaches, but the dollar penalties and related costs can mount pretty high. The benefit to fighting a first offense charge, if possible, is that if you succeed, the next such offense is treated as a first offense. If your son is young, there is a stronger risk that he will offend again, so trying to avoid a conviction may be good idea. Have your son consult an experienced OWI lawyer and urge him to discuss the details with the lawyer. Good Luck.

Ask 3 questions: 1) Who is the one actually representing? Will this guy simply disappear and have the case passed down to some minor associate after cashing your check? 2) Does this lawyer/firm specialize in DUI, or takes whatever walks in the door? 3) Does the lawyer lure you in on a low initial fee, with hidden fees hitting you later as more work is done?

Look for an experienced defense attorney. Predictions cannot be made without more facts. If he is convicted it will be on his record.

Look for an attorney who does a lot of DUI's and understands the law. When you interview with an attorney don't be afraid to ask lots of questions. If he appears inpatient with your questions, or evasive, don't hire him/her. DUIs are very difficult cases. It is difficult to keep a DUI off a person's record... even a first offense. This is due in large part to the attitude society has about driving while impaired. Also, each subsequent DUI conviction carries with it more severe penalties.. another reason why it is difficult to keep one off your record. You do not say what the alcohol breath reading for your son was, what his driving was like, or whether or not there was an accident, or whether he did field sobriety tests, or whether he submitted to a breath test at all. These are all critical issues to a DUI case. Just because its your son's first DUI does not mean he is going to get special treatment. The facts of the case will determine if the DUI remains on his record. Absolutely, it is beneficial to hire an attorney for a first offense because there is mandatory jail time, mandatory fines, mandatory loss of license, alcohol evaluation and possible treatment, interlock device on the car, high risk (SR22) insurance. This is very serious and it can also be quite costly.

You should look for education, not just law school but someone who keeps himself educated on the law and science of DUIs; experience, not just someone who has a lot of time wearing a tie, but someone who goes to court and most importantly tries DUI cases; and, understanding, not just of the basics of your case, but of the way you go about getting the best results possible. Be wary of people who: 1. Overpromise: if what the lawyer is telling you sounds to good to be true it probably is. 2. Oversimplify: the best results in a DUI case can NOT be obtained after only one appearance at court. 3. Undercharge: a good DUI defense costs money; it can't be done on the cheap.The lawyer is not painting your car and it can't be done for $495. 4. Claim Familiarity: Beware a lawyer who tells you he knows the judges or prosecutors and can get you a good deal. 5. Too Big To Get a Hold Of: Beware of the lawyer with multiple associates and multiple locations who is so big you'll never hear from him until its time to plead your case out.

It is always a good idea to consult an attorney about any criminal or serious motor vehicle charge. In Connecticut it is usually possibly to avoid a conviction for a first DUI arrest, and sometimes avoid a license suspension. Look for an attorney who spends a significant amount of his or her time in criminal court, has no disciplinary history, and can explain matters so that you can understand them. Get recommendations from friends or relatives who have dealt with attorneys.

Yes, he should have a lawyer. A good lawyer can see if any loopholes apply to help him. If not, he or she can at least keep the damage to his record and wallet to a minimum.

Call around and set up consultations, examine their webpages. Many DUI Lawyers, including our firm, offer free consultations to discuss your options. If this is a young kid, first time offender and it was a legit stop he still has many many options going forward. Best of luck.