by Sherry H. Bowen

Created on: March 17, 2008   Last Updated: October 31, 2008

If a problem has occurred where you have to consider hiring a
DUI lawyer, being informed is the best chance you have of coming out of the dilemma in the best possible way. Although hiring a lawyer is an added expense that you might not be able to afford, you won't know if you're able to afford a lawyer or not until you have consulted with one by phone or visit.

The Costs of hiring a DUI lawyer

The actual cost of hiring a DUI lawyer will vary between lawyers. The amount of experience, their reputation, the
difficulty of the case, and the location of their practice are some of the reasons for the difference in costs. Another reason is the amount of time the lawyer commits to each case.

The fees for DUI lawyers can range from $500 to $15,000 or more,depending on the lawyer theirself and the case.These items are included in the fees:
Reviewing the police report
Get a copy of your police report
Appear at your first hearing
Some of tehe expenses that are included in making the fee vary are:
DMV license hearing
Independent blook analysis
Service of subpoenas
Expert Witness fees
Other evidence
Administrative license suspension procedures
Additional procedures needed for other crimes

The lawyer could possibly ask for a retainer in advance which will be applied against the hourly charges or just charge a fixed fee which would include all expenses. Regardless of what the lawyer does, make sure to ask for a written agreement that documents all fees charged. Before hiring a DUI lawyer, compare costs between different lawyers and receive quotes.

Remember to make sure of one thing before hiring a DUI lawyer, or any lawyer - the lawyer communicates clearly about the case and has a proven track record with DUI cases.

The Benefits of hiring a DUI lawyer
One of the very first benefits of hiring a DUI lawyer for your DUI case is the fact that even though you might be able to make a bargain with the district attorney and take a plea, this will mean serving more jail time. If you retain a lawyer, the jail time could be reduced or completely eliminated.

Another benefit of hiring a DUI lawyer is that they are helpful in finding technicalitlies that could quickly have the charges dismissed or reduced. Lawyers are excellent in finding loopholes and technicalities that a layperson wouldn't know about.

Good DUI lawyers will allow contact during off hours. But another benefit is that anything revealed to the DUI lawyer is strictly confidential and legally protected under attorney/client privilege. So, be completely honest with the DUI lawyer.

How does this help your case? By having a professional working in your interest and knowing the letter of the law for DUI's, you will know that you have done everything possible to help youself and your family.

How efficient is it in lowering your fines? Hiring a DUI lawyer is very efficient in lowering fines and reducing jail time. The overall benefits of hiring a DUI lawyer far outweigh saving money by not hiring one.

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