How important is it to obtain an attorney with a lot of experience in DUI cases?

Usually, the more experienced your attorney is, the better your results. A more experienced attorney will likely know the Judge's and Prosecutor's in your case, depending on your jurisdiction, they may have done jury trials against the Judge, know the head of the prosecutor's office or other personal relationship that helps you get a better result. The more experienced attorney usually knows more about the science and the law and how it comes to bear in your case, this can lead to better results.

Only if you want to avoid jail time.

It depends on how important your license and freedom is. DUI's, even first time offenses, carry a potential jail sentence.

You will need an attorney to attempt to minimize the damages. A mistake on your part will be much more expensive that the attorneys fees.

Depends on your case. If it's clear cut you don't really have to have a lawyer on a first offense.

You need to hire a DUI specialist, and do it soon because you have only 10 days to save your license.

Very important. The DUI will result in criminal conviction, a license suspension, fines and will stay on your record for 10 years.

DUI's are a very complex area of the law, even though they are misdemeanors. There are a lot of variables that can affect the outcome of the case. Also consider how much is at stake and that there are a lot of fines and costs, as well as drivers responsibility fees, and you could lose your license as well as having an offense on your record that can never be expunged. It can affect your career and your schooling depending on what profession you intend on going into. A good DUI attorney will more than pay for himself with the vast knowledge and experience he brings to your case. There may be issues with your case that could be used to get the matter dismissed or to be used as leverage when negotiating with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a non alcohol related offense or even to a civil infraction. At least consult with an experience DUI attorney in your area.