DUI Charges in Arizona: Why You Need Quality Legal Representation in Court

Recent statistics from the Bureau of Justice show that well over a million arrests for driving under the influence (DUI) are made in the United States each year. In 2018, Arizona law enforcement officers arrested nearly 28,000 people for suspicion of DUI. About 75 percent of those arrested were ultimately convicted, leaving 25 percent who were not.

How was it that 25 percent were able to escape conviction? The answer almost always lies in who they hired to represent them in court. Having a quality DUI lawyer gives you the best shot at a favorable outcome when facing a DUI charge in Arizona. The following information explains what qualities make a first-rate DUI attorney, and why hiring one can make all the difference in court.

Where Do I Find The Best DUI Attorney For My Situation?

Many times, your best bet in finding an excellent DUI lawyer comes from a recommendation. Chances are you have a friend or family member who has faced a DUI at some point in their lives and asking them to share their experience and outcome could be all the reference you need.

If you don’t know someone who can provide a recommendation, or would rather not ask friends and family, you’ll have to rely on filtering through the web of attorneys and their qualifications online. Before you do choose and hire a lawyer to represent you, be sure to ask them for references from past clients who would be willing to speak with you.

What Questions Should I Ask When Considering A DUI Attorney?

Like in any profession, there are bound to be some bad apples among them. The differences, however, become clear when you begin to research their qualifications. Be sure to ask questions, such as:

• Are they licensed?
• Are they registered on the State Bar website?
• How much experience do they have as a DUI attorney?
• How many DUI cases have they handled successfully?
• Do they have any experience in a DUI case that are similar to yours?
• If so, what were the outcomes of those cases?

Ultimately, you are looking for a lawyer with extensive experience and knowledge specifically with DUIs. Choose one with a track record of winning cases and who has an in-depth understanding of Arizona DUI laws and defense strategies that fit your needs. Also, be sure to check if they have had any disciplinary actions taken against them by the State Bar of Arizona.

How Do Quality DUI Attorneys Operate In Arizona?

The best DUI attorneys will:

Offer A Free Consultation

Great attorneys use their knowledge to listen to the circumstances of your case and offer you their opinion about how to proceed. An experienced lawyer will explain the strengths and weaknesses of your case and explain in laymen’s terms some of the more complicated nuances of Arizona DUI law.

When consulting with a prospective attorney, be sure to bring a copy of your police report and any other pertinent documents to make the best use of your time together. It is also helpful to bring a list of written questions you might have.

There is no need to feel pressured into hiring an attorney on the spot. Take some time to consider and get a feel for whether they are the best lawyer for your situation.

Not Hold Any Preconceived Notions About Your Case

Reasonable attorneys are obligated to either win your case entirely or reach the best possible outcome for you. They operate from an “innocent until proven guilty” mindset. They may want to know as much as possible about any previous criminal history, but they are primarily concerned with addressing your current situation.

Excellent DUI attorneys do not immediately accept statements from the prosecutor or police. Instead, they insist on discovering any and all evidence to protect your constitutional rights.

Relentlessly Research And Investigate

Quality DUI attorneys are exceptional researchers and investigators and is often what separates a “good” lawyer from a great one. They will conduct in-depth research to find any missing information that could potentially help your case. This could include anything from what you ate to what you post on social media, and much more. Welcome this type of diligence because, at the end of the day, the evidence they provide could be the difference between winning and losing your case.

Be Skilled At Negotiation

Strong negotiation skills are imperative in providing you with the best possible outcome for your case. Quality attorneys work with the prosecution in determining the likelihood of conviction and the penalties that should be incurred if there is a conviction. It is important that you be as transparent as possible with your attorney as they navigate negotiations. Even minor details can provide the strategic tools needed for a favorable outcome.

What Is The Difference Between Hiring A DUI Attorney And Using A Public Defender?

Every citizen has a right to be represented in a court of law. If you are unable to afford your own attorney, the court will appoint one for you. Typically, these lawyers come from the public defender’s office.

While most public defenders are familiar with DUI laws and possible defenses, they are often overloaded with cases. This sometimes leaves defendants feeling like their case is not getting the attention it deserves, which unfortunately, could very well be the case. Public defenders are also assigned, not chosen by you, meaning if you are not happy with their representation there is little you can do.

Representation by a public defender is also limited in DUI cases. All DUI charges result in two separate types of proceedings, criminal and civil. A public defender only represents the criminal side of your case, but dealing with the civil case involving getting your license back from the Arizona Motor Vehicle Services (ADOT) is left up to you.

Private attorneys, although they come at a cost, will represent you in both a criminal and civil DUI case. They often accomplish better plea bargains and can have the time your license is suspended reduced without having to be present for routine court appearances. Private attorneys also generally have a better chance of having charges either dropped or dismissed altogether.

Do I need a DUI Attorney To Go To Trial?

Anyone is entitled to represent themselves at their DUI trial if they so choose. However, this is rarely a good idea. Understanding the legal terms and processes, along with protocol for trial proceedings, can be complicated and time-consuming. Judges rarely have the patience for inexperience, and your lack of experience will almost assuredly put you at a disadvantage.

Do I Really Need A DUI Lawyer If This Is My First Offense In Arizona?

Many people charged with a first offense DUI make the mistake of underestimating the consequences. Given the complexity and severity of DUI laws and their ever-increasing penalties, the role of a quality DUI attorney is more important than ever. And if there is any chance of having your case dismissed in court, it is unlikely to happen without a good lawyer on your side.

Only the best DUI lawyers can help have your charges reduced and avoid unnecessary penalties like ignition interlock devices or costly SR-22 auto insurance. If you are questioning whether to hire a lawyer to represent you in your DUI case, or considering hiring a substandard attorney, think again. Your job and your future are at stake.

Call the Mesa Criminal Lawyer criminal law team at at (480) 568-3999 to get expert-level legal help with your case.