12 "Must Ask" Questions Prior to Hiring an Indianapolis DUI Lawyer

The most important step of a successful DUI defense is hiring an expert DUI lawyer. There are lawyers that have varying areas of focus, expertise and experience. If you hire an lawyer with the wrong focus, not enough expertise or experience it could have irreparable ramifications. By asking the following 12 questions during the interviewing process, you can increase your chances of hiring the right lawyer for your case. 1. How much experience do you have representing clients that are facing DUI charges?

In years and cases. If the lawyer you are interviewing has only tried 15 DUI cases in the past 15 years, it shows they are not active in DUI law. You need someone who is active in defending DUI cases. If you want the best defense possible, it is imperative you hire an Indianapolis DUI lawyer specializing in DUI law. 2. Do you have any direct experience in handling a case like mine?

If the lawyer has been focused on DUI cases for a while, most likely they will have seen a case like yours. Ask for specific examples. 3. How many DUI cases have you taken to a jury trial?

Your case might require a trial in order for you to get the deserved outcome. Based on this, it is crucial you engage an expert Indianapolis DUI lawyer with extensive trial experience. Ask for specific examples showing results. 4. What challenges do you see in my case?

An experienced Indianapolis DUI lawyer has seen varying and unique circumstances surrounding DUI cases over the course of their career and should be able to provide you with some insights to your specific situation. 5. What will the final outcome of my case be?

If the lawyer you are interviewing has a definitive answer, you should stand up and end the interview. A good Indianapolis DUI lawyer will never promise a specific outcome of your case. Their commitment to protecting your rights and defending your case should be their only promise. 6. Do you have experience with the prosecutors and judges that will be involved in my case? Relationships do matter. An expert lawyer will have relationships with the "players" in

your case and should be able to utilize their expertise in getting you a favorable result. 7. On a case you have personally gone to trial with, have you recently had a jury return a NOT GUILTY ON ALL CHARGES verdict? The only acceptable answer is YES. 8. Have you ever been disciplined by the State Bar? Lawyers with a disciplinary record with their State Bar are not acceptable. There are plenty of qualified lawyers to help you defend your case without this negative history. 9. Are you covered by legal malpractice insurance? This is mandatory coverage for all lawyers.

10. Who in your office will be handling my case and what are their qualifications?

Many lawyers work in a firm which has several lawyers on staff. You need to determine that the lawyer working the most on your case has the expertise and experience you expect for your defense. If someone other than the lawyer you hire will be working on your case, it is well within your rights to understand their qualifications. 11. Do you provide a written agreement that outlines all potential costs? This is extremely important when contemplating a DUI defense. Other than the main costs for the lawyer, here are some potential additional costs:

• Independent chemical test analysis, expert witness fees, and service of subpoenas may be an incremental cost.

• Costs involved with the Administrative License Suspension hearing. • Costs could be higher for a felony charge vs. a misdemeanor.

• Trials and appeals can include an extra charge. 12. Is there any reason you shouldn’t work on my case? When you are facing DUI charges, it is of the upmost importance to have 100% commitment from your Indianapolis DUI lawyer. Make sure you are comfortable with the lawyer, the firm and their communication style and frequency before you leave their office. Facing DUI charges is a stressful time in your life. Having a clear understanding of what it will take to defend your case and what the communication plan is will reduce your stress and increase your chance for success. For more information, please visit http://www.duiindianapolis.com or call (317) 522-1953 to schedule a free consultation.