If you have been arrested for a DUI in Indiana, you must now take some very important next steps before your charges are heard in court. A DUI has the potential to cause serious problems in your future, legally, professionally, and personally. Choosing the right attorney for your case will ensure that you achieve a fair outcome.
1. Determine if you need a DUI Attorney
If you have been charged with a DUI or OUI in Indiana, it is in your best interest to hire an attorney to defend you in your case. Indiana has strict penalties for DUI/OUI cases, which can be both costly and personally damaging. Finding an attorney who understands DUI law, experience in DUI cases, and can use their experience to argue the specifics of your case is a major benefit for your charges.
2. Outline your case
Before speaking with a DUI/OUI Attorney, make sure you are able to use your time with them most effectively. It helps to summarize the details of your arrest and gather as much relevant information as possible. This way, when you discuss the case with a lawyer you will be able to focus on the attorney’s opinions of the case and the potential approaches they identify.
3. Do Your Research
Having a good idea of the available attorneys is always a good way to start. There are many sites that allow you to search attorneys by rating, and if you are comfortable, could consider asking around in your personal network about positive experiences. It is important that you trust the attorney you decide to go with, and this is a great way to start.
4. Discuss your case in depth with potential DUI attorneys
Many DUI Attorneys in Indiana offer free consultations to discuss the specifics of your case. Since a DUI or OUI case has such harsh possible outcomes, it is worth your time to research many available attorneys, and to understand the approach they suggest you take in your hearing. You will find in your discussions that you have a better rapport with some attorneys than others, or that you are more comfortable with one suggested approach over others. If you only meet with a single attorney, you may find yourself wondering halfway through your case if you made the right decision. Confidence in your attorney is a major key to a successful case, and you want to be sure that you have made the right decision and are pursuing the outcome that best suits your needs.
5. List your pros and cons of each attorney you speak with
After each meeting with a potential attorney, take a moment to write out your pros and cons of using them as your defense attorney. If you meet with multiple attorneys and don’t give yourself some reference as to who you felt most or least comfortable with, you may find that many of the details escape you. Detailing your experiences is a very helpful way to be sure you are making the correct decision before beginning the court process.
In a case as serious and potentially costly as a DUI hearing, confidence in your attorney is very important. Following these 5 steps is a good way to begin to build your case. Peace of mind that you have made the right decision is very helpful when you begin your trial.
