Image via Wikipedia
Following an arrest or charge with drunk driving, the first critical step is to obtain adequate legal representation. Without an attorney, it is difficult or impossible to navigate the court systems of New York. An attorney can meet with you, hear the charges against you and the circumstances around your arrest, and take the necessary steps to bring you through the ordeal.
First Time vs. Repeat Offenders
A first time offender faces lighter charges than someone with one or more DUI convictions. If you have been convicted of driving drunk, it is imperative to get legal counsel. Fines and jail sentences are higher for repeat offenders, and having an attorney can save you a lot of money and drastically reduce your jail sentence. An attorney is your ally; you don’t have to face the situation alone. Laws punishing drunk drivers are stricter than ever before.
An Experienced Attorney
Someone who doesn’t work with New York laws for a living doesn’t know everything that New York Drunk Driving Attorneys deal with on a daily basis. This knowledge can save you a lot of grief. Find a lawyer who has experience in defending DUI cases. This attorney can navigate you through the system like only a seasoned professional can. The sooner you contact and secure legal representation, the better off you’ll be in the long run.
Finding the Right Attorney
It’s also important to get an attorney in New York, if this is where you face charges. Drunk driving laws are specific to the state, and each state treats the situation differently. The Internet is a good resource for local attorneys who know the judges, clerks and other court personnel who you’ll be dealing with. The lawyer’s website is often a good source for general information about drunk driving laws. It is also a great way to get a feel for the lawyer’s personality and their methods of conducting legal business.
Your Consultation
After choosing your attorney, schedule a consultation. The lawyer will hear what you have to say, examine all documents regarding your case and see any evidence against you. Then the attorney can begin building a solid defense for your situation. Show up for all your meetings and appointments on time. Absences and tardiness at depositions, court hearings and other legal formalities make the defendant look bad. During your initial consultation, you will also learn about legal fees and payment plans that are available to you.