When faced with a DUI charge, hiring a DUI defense attorney as soon as possible can help you get your charges reduced or dismissed altogether. Finding the best attorney for you and your needs can be difficult, especially with Internet saturation of ads for lawyers of all specialties.  Here are a few questions you can ask potential Fresno DUI Defense Attorneys to help determine if they are the most qualified and best fit for your case:

What areas of law do you focus on?

Not all lawyers are the same.  There are hundreds of areas of specialization within the law and different lawyers have different training and expertise.   A person may be an outstanding personal injury attorney, but not know the basics of DUI defense.  Or a person may be highly regarded as a real estate attorney but not be proficient in litigation. Also a ‘jack of all trades' may sound nice, but DUI cases are unique and require focused training and experience.  This makes it important to select an attorney who focuses a large portion of their practice of DUI cases and handles them on a regular basis.   Asking your potential lawyer this question may help you get an idea of whether or not they specialize in DUIs and if so to what extent is their focus and experience in DUI cases.

What kind of experience and training do you have?

It is important to select a DUI Defense attorney that has legitimate experience in the courtroom and in negotiation for DUI cases.  It can be beneficial to ask about their relationship with the judges, prosecutors, or other court staff that may be involved in DUI cases and if they have appeared in these courts on a regular basis. Asking your potential attorney if they have taken it upon themselves to receive specialized training in the field of DUI law.  As with other professional fields, lawyers are required to undergo ongoing education on a yearly basis.  Some attorneys focus their ongoing education in areas related to DUI law and thus may have more current and accurate knowledge for your case.  Inquiring about training can help you find a lawyer who has received the latest and best training relating to police procedures, drug and alcohol testing, and law specific to DUI investigations and arrests. 

 Can you guarantee me a certain outcome?

 This question can help you determine your potential lawyer's intentions.  Some attorneys may try to guarantee a certain outcome for your DUI case or that they will be able to clear you of all charges.  While this would be ideal, variables and changing circumstances mean that nothing is usually guaranteed in criminal cases, DUIs included.  An attorney who claims they can guarantee the outcome of your case may be trying to get you to pay their fee.  A top DUI Defense attorney will likely be able to inform you, based on the circumstances and their knowledge and training, what you can expect in your case and what defenses they recommend for you. 

If you have been arrested for a DUI, or know someone who has and want legal help, look for attorneys who are experienced and have your best interest in mind. Jones Law has dedicated its practice to DUI cases specifically. We understand California DUI law inside and out. Let us use our knowledge to defend your rights and freedom.