Start With a Clear Case Assessment
What do you see as the strongest and weakest parts of my case? Ask your lawyer to walk through the stop, the field sobriety tests, and any chemical testing. You want to know what evidence can be challenged, what cannot, and how local judges typically view similar fact patterns. A thoughtful assessment reveals how conservative or aggressive the defense might be, and whether early negotiations make sense given the risks of trial and the collateral consequences you face.
Experience That Matches Your Situation
How many cases like mine have you handled, and what were the outcomes? Go beyond years in practice and dig into recent, comparable matters. If there are complicating factors, such as an accident, a prior conviction, or a high BAC reading, ask for concrete experience with those specifics.
A seasoned DUI attorney should explain patterns they have seen, the strategies that worked, and the pitfalls to avoid. Confirm who will appear with you in court and who will draft motions, so you know the team doing the work.
Strategy, Options, and Likely Timelines
What are the main defense paths here, and what does each one involve? Press for a plan that covers early motions, discovery, expert consultation, and plea negotiations. Ask which steps could realistically get evidence suppressed, and what success looks like at each stage. You should also hear a candid view of timelines for license issues, arraignment, pretrial hearings, and trial settings in your county. A clear roadmap helps you prepare for time off work, transportation, and other logistics.
Evidence, Testing, and Experts
How will you evaluate the traffic stop, field tests, and breath or blood results? Request specifics about dash or body camera footage, maintenance records for breath machines, and lab chain-of-custody. Ask whether independent testing, a toxicologist, or an accident reconstructionist might be useful, and why. Your lawyer should explain how scientific challenges meet legal standards, and when a flaw justifies taking the case to trial.
Communication and Courtroom Preparation
How often will we speak, and how quickly do you return messages? Establish expectations for updates, preferred channels, and who to call on urgent issues. Ask what to wear to court, how to address the judge, and when to arrive. You should also discuss preparation for testimony, including mock questioning and scope of cross-examination. Reliable communication reduces stress and prevents avoidable mistakes, especially if there are separate administrative proceedings about your license.
Costs, Billing, and Value
What is your fee structure, and what does it include? Some lawyers offer flat fees that cover pretrial work but exclude motions or trial; others bill hourly or by phase. Request a written scope that explains what happens if the case goes to trial, if experts are retained, or if unexpected hearings arise. Clarify court costs, subpoena fees, and investigator expenses. The goal is to understand total cost of representation before you commit, not after invoices arrive.
Pleas, Diversion, and Collateral Consequences
If negotiation is advisable, what alternatives exist to a conviction on the top charge? Inquire about reductions, diversion, or deferred judgments and how each affects fines, jail exposure, probation terms, and ignition interlock requirements. A knowledgeable DUI attorney should also flag noncriminal effects, such as insurance hikes, travel restrictions, employment concerns, and professional licensing issues. Understanding the broader picture helps you judge whether a proposed resolution protects your long-term interests.
Measuring Risk and Deciding on Trial
How do we weigh the risks of trial against a negotiated outcome? Invite your lawyer to quantify the chances of key rulings, anticipated jury reactions, and sentencing ranges after conviction. Discuss potential witness credibility problems, the strength of police testimony, and how jurors in your venue tend to respond to the facts at hand. An honest analysis equips you to decide with clarity rather than fear, and to move forward knowing why the choice makes sense.
Next Steps and Your Role
What exactly should I do today to put my case in the best position? You may need to gather documents, list potential witnesses, start alcohol education, or complete a license hearing request. Ask for a written to-do list and deadlines so nothing slips. A proactive client helps the defense move faster and more effectively. Document everything your lawyer recommends. Close the meeting by confirming how to reach your lawyer after hours and when you will receive your first detailed update from the DUI attorney you choose.
