Is It Pointless to Hire an Expensive Lawyer When Facing DWI?
Is it pointless to hire an expensive lawyer when facing DWI? This post is going to answer all of your questions on this very important topic and more! And here at Barkemeyer Law Firm we get asked this very frequently. So let’s dive into this crucial topic that can affect your future in a number of ways!
PRO TIP: Here’s what to do after getting arrested for DWI!
More Expensive Can Often Mean More Experience And Better Results
While you may think it may be pointless to hire a lawyer after you have already been given the charges of a DWI. However, just because that is what you are facing, does not mean that you have to accept the guilty charge. And many times hiring the more expensive attorney may help you pay less down the line!
How a Lawyer Can Help You With DWI Charges
A lawyer can help you in many ways when you are facing DWI charges. The first thing that they can do is help determine if the state has enough cause to convict you. If there is sufficient evidence, a lawyer will look over the entire case to find weak spots or insufficient evidence to prove you are guilty.
This process is done to help a person avoid receiving a DWI charge on their record as it impacts much of their life.
If you avoid hiring a lawyer, you will be charged with a DWI and that will remain on your criminal record, hindering you from employment, housing, and more. Hiring a lawyer when you are facing any type of criminal charges is the best option.
PRO TIP: Learn more about DWI laws and penalties on this page here! And contact Barkemeyer Law Firm if you’re facing DWI charges in Louisiana!
You Don’t Have to Hire the Most Expensive
Just because you need to hire a lawyer, does not mean that you need the most expensive one. Paying a lot to a lawyer does not always guarantee that they have the know-how needed to help your specific case. However, what it does mean is that they have the experience and confidence to charge a lot and feel comfortable in doing so.
Do More Expensive Lawyers Get Better Results?
Each case is different and each lawyer is different. However, you should ensure that you are looking at other people’s experiences with said lawyer and do basic research before scheduling a consultation.
With the question of do more expensive lawyers get better results, the truth of the matter is that many times they do. They have earned the right to charge higher fees based on their connections and education.
PRO TIP: Read all about the long term consequences of DWI charges. Now you may realize you better hire that attorney!
Benefits Of Paying More
If you are able to afford a really good DWI lawyer, then why not hire one? Here are some of the benefits you may see by paying more rather than choosing self-representation or going through a public defender.
- Significantly lowered penalties for charges
- Case dismissed or charges dropped completely (yes! It happens!)
- Lower fines from DWI charges
- Better connections within the legal system that will help you with your charges
Have Several Consultations With Different DWI Attorneys
When you find a lawyer that you believe can help you with your case, you can call them to schedule a consultation. You will often be given an appointment time and basic instructions. From there, you will speak with the lawyer during your consultation appointment.
This appointment is done to determine if the lawyer thinks he/she can handle the case and provide you with the best outcome.
To do this, you will need to ensure that you:
- Bring all evidence and paperwork surrounding your case.
- Write down any questions you may have.
- Talk to the lawyer about what outcomes they may believe are possible.
- Determine pricing if the lawyer seems like a good fit for your case.
- Discuss with the lawyer if payment options are available.
In many cases, lawyers are expensive no matter how you put it. With that said, many lawyers will offer payment plans to make it more convenient for those who do not have the funds upfront to have legal representation.
Things to Ask During Your Consultation
When you are doing a consultation with a potential lawyer, you want to ensure that they have experience and can handle your case properly. You may want to ask them some of the following questions:
- What qualifications and certifications do you have?
- How many DWI cases have you done and what were the outcomes?
- What would the worst case scenario for my case be?
- What is the outcome you hope to have for my case?
- Do you offer payment plans?
- Do you specialize in DWI cases?
- Do you have the time for my case right now? (Lawyers are busy people and sometimes they simply cannot take on your case. Ensure they can dedicate enough time to your case by asking.)
Learn More About The Lawyer’s Experience With DWI Charges
A big thing to ask them is how long they have been in business or practicing law. You will also want to ask them their certifications of completion of law school. This will ensure that you have an experienced and educated lawyer on your side.
If you do not ask these questions, you may be hiring someone who has had zero experience with DWI cases. This means that your outlook for not having a DWI charge is not the best.
*It is also best to use your common sense and judgment. If the lawyer is not paying attention to what you have to say or seems too busy for you, they likely are going to handle your case the same way.
*When going to a consultation, ensure that the lawyer is taking his/her time with you. (Keep in mind that consultations are usually limited time slots.) You should notice strong eye contact and confidence. This could be with speaking tone, posture, or both.
Wrapping Up: Is It Pointless To Hire An Expensive Lawyer When Facing DWI Charges?
Taking the time to hire an experienced criminal lawyer is necessary for any driving while intoxicated charges. However, you do not need to spend an arm and a leg to get the best. More money does not mean more success but often times it translates into more experience. But you can take the time to find the right lawyer for you by doing consultations and comparing prices.
If you want to check different prices and compare, you can contact Barkemeyer Law Firm today to set up a consultation! With many years of experience handling DWI cases and a variety of other charges, he is the man to talk to!
