Do You Need a DWI Lawyer?

DWI stands for Driving Whilst Impaired and just like DUI (Driving Under the Influence) carries very serious consequences if you are charged. Even if it is a first time offense the penalties can be harsh so being represented by a competent DWI lawyer is vitally important. If you are facing subsequent charges for DWI then the penalties become more severe and can include felony charges being brought against you. Finding a good lawyer is therefore a task you should approach as soon as possible.

Every state within the United States will make its own laws and legislation with regard to DWI offenses so you need to be aware that you should hire a DWI lawyer who practices within the state in which the offense took place. This is because they will have the knowledge and experience of applicable state law to adequately defend you and will be more familiar with the procedures and tests carried out to prove your guilt.

As your lawyer they will look to the tests that were carried out at the time of your arrest and the corresponding police evidence to analyze whether or not these tests were correctly performed, carried out by qualified personnel and if the correct procedures where followed. Police testimony can also be questioned in court, but it is not often that a police testimony is successfully argued against. However, the legality of the procedures followed by the arresting officer at the time of your arrest may be questioned and successfully overturned.

When you begin looking for a DWI lawyer you should try to find someone who specializes only in these type of cases. Whilst many lawyers may be willing to take your case on, the expert knowledge required to interpret the medical and scientific tests conducted when you were arrested requires a lawyer who specializes only in these cases. Try to contact several lawyers before deciding on who to hire and arrange meeting with them to discuss your case and to gain more information about them. The first consultation is usually free and will give you the opportunity to ask them about their experience in these cases and fees.

When it comes to the cost of hiring a lawyer it can vary depending on the type of case, the severity of the charges, the perceived length of the court case and the strength of the evidence against you. Many lawyers will work according to a hourly fee or on a set fee basis depending on the type of case. You may find that you will be able to negotiate the terms of their fee and how they are paid to suit your financial circumstances. If you cannot afford to hire a private lawyer then you can request a court-appointed lawyer paid for by the state.

Before you hire a DWI lawyer you should make sure you know the exact charges levied against you and when you are due to appear in court. Before you hire anyone though, make sure you have a written agreement detailing all fees and cost and which you have read and understood before signing.