Here's What To Expect When Working With A DUI Lawyer For The First Time
Are you facing a DUI charge? You might be thinking about hiring a lawyer to help you get through the experience for the first time. There are many things you should expect from your attorney. Here are a few to start considering now:
A Thorough Background Check
When you first meet with your DUI lawyer, you can expect to thoroughly go over your background. Even if you don't have a past record, you should be completely honest about any incidents or infractions you have encountered in the past. Your lawyer needs to know everything about your past when it comes to driving in order to effectively defend you.
Even if you have had some problems in the past, your lawyer should know upfront so they can understand your circumstances and put together a plan of action that explains those circumstances and outlines how you'll avoid those same circumstances in the future. So, take the time to sit down and make a list of past driving problems, DUI-related or not, so you don't forget anything important when meeting with your DUI lawyer.
A Plan for the Future
Your lawyer will also likely want to work with you to create a plan for the future that will help keep you out of trouble with the law. Doing so will help prove to the court that you're serious about making changes and that you don't need to go to jail or pay any significant fines to change your life.
Putting together an action plan for the future should entail things such as where you'll live, work, and play so the judge gets a good idea of the type of lifestyle you plan to lead. With any luck, your future plans will give the judge enough confidence to give you another chance at making a positive contribution to your community.
Some Practice for Court
If you end up having to go to court to defend your DUI accusation, your lawyer will spend some time practicing the experience with your beforehand. They'll give you an idea of what to expect when it comes to answering questions and communicating with anyone inside of the courtroom — including the judge.
They may practice cross-examination questions with you and teach you mannerisms to use in court that will help keep the judge neutral throughout your hearing. You should walk into the courtroom with confidence in knowing exactly what to expect from beginning to end.