A DUI can be a challenging experience for many people. It will cost you some money and can result in losing your driver’s license. A DUI can even lead to significant criminal penalties if you are guilty. However, an experienced DUI lawyer could help you get through it as smoothly as possible. Below is a list of questions to help you gather information about hiring a DUI lawyer in Phoenix, AZ.
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Who is a DUI Lawyer?
A DUI lawyer is an attorney representing people charged with driving under the influence (DUI). The job of a DUI lawyer is to help their clients avoid costly fines, jail time, and other consequences associated with being convicted of driving under the influence. If you are facing legal issues related to DUI, consulting with a specialized lawyer, especially one with expertise in DUI Scottsdale, can provide you with the necessary guidance and support.
A DUI lawyer provides support for their clients throughout the entire legal process. They can represent their clients in court and help them navigate the legal system to get their charges dropped or reduced. A DUI lawyer will also be able to assist with any issues that arise during this process, such as probation violations or if they need to file an appeal after their conviction for driving under the influence
List of Questions to Ask Your DUI Lawyer
Apart from some common questions, here is a list of questions you can ask your DUI lawyer in Phoenix, AZ, for clarity.
How Many DUI Cases Have You Handled?
The more experience your lawyer has, the better. If your lawyer has handled many cases and won many of them, you should consider hiring them to represent you in court. If your lawyer is new to the game, you should ask them how much experience they have with DUI cases. Ask them how many cases they have won and lost, and ask for references from past clients who were satisfied with their services.
What Are the Common Plea Agreements For a Case Like Mine?
Plea agreements are agreements between the prosecutor and your lawyer that will result in you pleading guilty to a lesser charge or receiving a lighter sentence. In many cases, getting a misdemeanor DUI conviction is possible instead of a felony.
What Are the Consequences of a DUI?
Here are some of the consequences you may face if convicted:
Jail time: A first-offense DUI is usually punishable by up to six months in jail, but this can increase with subsequent offenses.
Fines: Fines for a first offense can range from $350 to $1,000. The fines increase with subsequent offenses.
Driver’s license suspension: If you are convicted of DUI in California, your driver’s license will be suspended for one year. You will also have to take a chemical test before it is reinstated.
Will I Lose My Job If I Get Convicted of DUI?
If you are facing a DUI charge, it can be a frightening prospect. You may be worried about what will happen to your professional life if you are convicted, but the good news is that many employees can keep their jobs after a DUI conviction. Depending on the nature of the job and the circumstances surrounding the arrest, you may be able to keep your job even if you are convicted.
How Long Does a DUI Take to Show Up on My Driving Record?
In most states, a DUI conviction can stay on your record for up to 10 years. However, some states have stricter laws and may keep the information on file for longer. It is important to know how long a DUI will remain on your driving record before you decide whether or not you should fight it.
What is the Total Cost of Your Services?
It is essential to know your services’ total cost before making a decision. If your lawyer charges by the hour, ask how many hours they expect this case to take. If they charge a flat fee, get an idea of what that number is. If it is not clear at first, ask them to clarify. Make sure you are comfortable with the fee structure before signing contracts or putting down any money.
Do You Focus on Any Other Areas of Law Besides DUI?
One of the most important questions to ask your DUI lawyer is whether or not they focus on any other areas of law besides DUIs. If you are looking for a general practice lawyer, this may not matter as much, but if you want a specialist in DUI law, then it is extremely important that they focus on nothing else.
Will I Be Able to Drive While the Case is Pending?
This is a question that many people have when they are arrested for driving under the influence or DUI. The answer is that it depends. The officer will impound your vehicle and give you a temporary license when you are arrested for a DUI.
This license allows you to drive while your case is pending, but only if you are not charged with any other driving infractions while your case is pending. If you are charged with any other driving infractions during this time, then your temporary license will be revoked until after your court date.
If We Go to Trial, Who Will Be the Lead Attorney, and What is Their Record On DUI Trials?
It is essential to ask this question. You want to ensure that you have an attorney with a good record of winning DUI cases in court. Your attorney should be able to explain their past cases and how they were able to win them. If you are not happy with their answers or if they do not have much of a record, then it may be time for you to find another attorney.
Conclusion
This article has given you a general insight into what to expect if you are in a situation where you need counsel while driving under the influence. Keep in mind that many factors can affect the outcome of a DUI case, so do not make rash decisions before consulting a qualified criminal lawyer in Tempe, AZ.
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