When a person is arrested for DWI and they can’t plea bargain because they don’t want a permanent blemish on their criminal record, hiring a DWI attorney is the only option. There are many lawyers in the Houston area, which can make the selection process difficult. To find the right attorney for a particular case, clients should look for the five criteria below.
Significant Experience
Most new attorneys get their start working for the state attorney or the public defender’s office when they’ve finished law school. As far as private lawyers are concerned, the fewer years they’ve been practicing, the less time they’ve had to develop knowledge of the Texas legal system. When choosing an attorney, select one who has a good win-loss record.
No Language Barriers
Texas is a diverse state, and its inhabitants come from various cultures around the world. Whether one speaks Spanish, Chinese or another language, it’s important to hire an attorney who speaks in one’s native tongue and understands their cultural background.
Free Initial Consultation
Before one buys a car, they normally test drive it; the same concept applies to hiring a lawyer. A client should look for an attorney with whom they can have an initial consultation, especially in DWI cases where budget is a primary concern. During the first meeting, a client can ask as many questions as they’d like without worrying about payment.
Positive Word-Of-Mouth
Other clients’ feedback can help one determine whether an attorney is the right choice. The more good recommendations an attorney receives, the more reliable they may be when it comes to handling a DWI case. However, clients should read these testimonials carefully before they contact a lawyer, looking for those from others who have faced similar circumstances.
Trust from Peers and Other People
It may seem obvious, but hiring someone to whom one entrusts their reputation requires a significant amount of trust. Because the client puts their entire life in the attorney’s hands, they should take the time to hire a lawyer who is honest and forthright. Hiring an honest lawyer will help one with their current situation, and it will leave them with an ally should future mistakes occur.
