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A DWI charge in New York is very serious and can have quite devastating consequences. It is, therefore, important that one chooses the right attorney to represent them in safeguarding their rights and trying as much as possible to get a positive outcome. Indeed, an initial consultation with a DWI attorney is necessary in assessing their expertise and suitability for one’s case. This blog will talk about some of the necessary questions to ask any DWI defense attorney so that you can make a proper decision.
What is Your Experience with DWI Cases?
Among the most important things that you must know about your DWI attorney is their experience. Ask questions that will help you determine how many cases they have handled, and what their results were. A DWI attorney who has represented many clients will be very conversant with New York’s laws, court procedures, and a range of possible defense strategies. Their knowledge of local judges and prosecutors may benefit you.
Have You Taken Cases to Trial?
Not all DWI cases go to trial, but it is important to know your DWI attorney has trial experience. Ask if they’ve taken cases to trial and how much is the success rate of their cases. If an attorney is ready to fight at trial, he might have a better chance of negotiating with the prosecution since he has belief in his capability to defend your case.
What is Your Approach to DWI Defense?
Every attorney for DWI defense has a different style of handling their cases. You can discover their approach by inquiring about the strategy they would follow in your case. Some may question the legality of the traffic stop, and some may point out inconsistencies with the breathalyzer tests. Their approach lets you know how they are going to take care of your case, so you feel supported throughout the process.
What Potential Outcomes Should I Expect?
While heavy penalties for a first DWI are not quite as severe as those assessed for repeat offenders, fines range from $500 to $1,000 with a surcharge added on of about $395. The jail time is up to one year, though first offenders may not have to spend time in jail. License revocation shall be a minimum of six months.
A second DWI within ten years enhances the penalties to $1,000-$5,000 in fines, up to four years in jail, and at least one year of license revocation. Fines for a repeat offender might be as much as $10,000 with seven years of jail time and at least a one-year minimum license revocation. You can Steven Siegel attorney to explain the process so you know what to expect.
What Are Your Fees, and How Do You Charge for Your Services?
It is crucial to understand your attorney’s fee structure, so that you can know how much everything will cost. Keep in mind that some people offer a fixed rate while others offer an hourly rate. It is important to understand the fees so you can plan on the expenses that may be incurred without prior notice. Financial ambiguity is an issue that is likely to ruin the trust of a client, and therefore fee transparency is important.
Will I Need to Appear in Court?
Inquire whether your presence is necessary for each and every hearing that is to be conducted. Some DWI defense attorneys are allowed to represent you without your presence thus sparing you the stress and saving time. Having an understanding of what will happen in court also assists in the preparation for the legal process.
What Is The Process for Receiving Updates About My Case?
Communication is very important in legal matters. You must ask how the attorney will communicate with you if they handle your case. Will they notify you by email, phone, or meetings as often as you require? Knowing how they will communicate with you keeps you informed and helps you make the best decision at the right time.
What Steps Can I Take to Help My Case?
Several measures can be taken which will increase the chances of a DWI defense attorney case succeeding. Inquire from your lawyer what measures you can take, for instance, attending alcohol classes or seeking the services of a counselor. In some cases, it may be useful to show the court that you are prepared to deal with the root causes of the problem and this can lead to favorable outcomes.
Can You Provide References from Past Clients?
Getting references from previous clients may give an understanding of the attorney’s credibility and performance. Interviewing past clients is a useful way of finding out from them the experience they had with the attorney and their level of satisfaction with the services. It can be very beneficial to get this information to see whether the attorney will be suitable for the job.
Conclusion
Choosing the right DWI defense attorney in New York is very critical in ensuring that your rights are observed, and that you get the best possible result for your case. By asking the above mentioned questions during your first consultation, you can get vital information about an attorney’s qualifications and experience.
You don’t have to go through this challenging legal process alone anymore! The Law Office of Steven S. Siegel PLLC has earned a reputation as the best advocates in defending people charged with DWI offenses throughout both Nassau and Suffolk counties, as well as Queens County. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
