No one wants to ever need to hire an attorney, as lawyers typically only come into the picture when there’s a problem. Even worse, some clients discover that the attorney they chose (and paid) was unethical, inexperienced, or incompetent. However, many don’t realize it until it is too late. Clients can click here for some tips to avoid unpleasant surprises when hiring a DWI lawyer in Rockwall, TX.
Put the Same Effort into Finding an Attorney as One Would to Find a Physician
If a person moves to a new town, they will do some research before choosing a new doctor. Hiring an attorney is similar. In DWI cases, the results must be endured for years to come. Potential clients should do their homework without relying solely on advertisements. Start by talking to others who’ve had to hire DWI attorneys, or ask a lawyer who practices in another area of law for referrals.
Focus on Experience
It may seem surprising, but many lawyers never try a single case. When interviewing an attorney, the client should ask about past DWI cases. Some lawyers represent themselves as DWI or criminal attorneys, but they won’t try these cases. Instead, they’ll try to negotiate a plea deal. In many cases, these attorneys have the lowest fees and the highest volume in their practices.
Don’t Hire a General Attorney to Perform Specialized Tasks
Some legal cases don’t require specific knowledge, but others do, as is the case withDWIs. More than other criminal case types, DWIs involve scientific proof. An adequate defense requires knowledge of physics, chemistry, and biology, as well as a working knowledge of the equipment police officers use to gather evidence. Ask the lawyer in Rockwall, TX, if they are trained in field sobriety and breath testing, and consider their answers carefully.
Understand the Attorney’s Limitations
As with other professionals, those needing a DWI lawyer should be wary of guarantees and false promises. Any attorney who guarantees a favorable result should be viewed with skepticism. However, some unethical lawyers make guarantees while knowing that, if things don’t work out, the client cannot do anything about it. The only guarantee a lawyer with the Law Offices of Tim Hartley should make is that they will do their best to defend the client.
