Drunk driving is considered a serious offense in Colorado. Even the first time DUI conviction may cost $10,000, and there could be other consequences, such as license revocation. If the concentration of alcohol in your blood was high, this may even mean going for alcohol treatment, counseling, and in some cases, there can be an increase in insurance costs too. If you have been charged with DUI, first thing should be about contacting a lawyer. In this post, we are sharing more on what it takes to hire a lawyer in Colorado for DUI cases.
Ask questions
If you have been arrested, someone from your family and friends may have to contact a criminal lawyer on your behalf to talk in depth. It is important to ask a few questions during the first meeting. Some of the basic questions that one can ask include –
- How long have you been a criminal lawyer?
- What percentage of your practice is about representing clients charged with DUI?
- Will you go to the court in person?
- What do you think of the charges at this point?
- Will you do your share of the investigation.
Comfort is important
As someone who is already dealing with a criminal charge and consequences related to it, one of your first steps should be about hiring a lawyer who is approachable. For instance, do you feel comfortable sharing your side of the story with your lawyer? Do you think the lawyer explained things about your DUI charge in a manner that you can understand? Does the lawyer understand your personal concerns?
Don’t delay in seeking help
In the ideal world, if you are not wrong, you should be facing a criminal charge. Sadly, that’s not how things work. Sometimes, the charges are exaggerated beyond imagination, and if you don’t have a lawyer by your side, you may have to deal with the aftermath on your own, which wouldn’t be easy. There is a higher charge of reducing bail amount substantially and getting your bail when you go to the court for the first appearance with a criminal lawyer by you side.
Just don’t settle for a lawyer who is just that – a lawyer. What you need is an expert of criminal law and someone who is capable of assisting you with the basics from day one. If needed, ask the criminal lawyer for a few references to know their work better.