Finding the Right San Francisco DUI Defense Lawyer
Finding the right San Francisco DUI lawyer with a good history and name in the field can be overwhelming for an individual. There are a few important questions to ask to ensure the right choice is made:
- Did Martindale-Hubbel give this lawyer a rating? If so, what was it?
- If the case continues to trial, are there additional expenses?
- A moral lawyer will not make any guarantees on the outcome of a case because nothing is for sure in DUI cases.
- Does the final price quote cover expert fees, blood reanalysis, the DMV hearing, and other likely expenses?
- In the lawyer’s history, have there been any disciplinary actions taken by the California State Bar?
- Does the firm specialize in DUI defense cases? (See the passage about DUI specialization provided by the “American Bar Association Journal”)
- To cover any services, determine fees, and document any guarantees made by the lawyer, a written contract should always be agreed upon.
- If you can, ask a local police officer which DUI attorney they would recommend.
- Is this attorney Board-certified by the American Bar Association (through the National College for DUI Defense)?
In order to make an educated decision, do not be afraid to ask questions. Inquire about the lawyer’s experience, education, accomplishments, etc. All of these details are essential to make a final decision. For more resources, refer to the links below:
California State Bar
Through this link you are able to find an attorney’s disciplinary and complaint history online.
California DUI: A Drunk Driving Legal Guide
This guide includes suggestions of the top DUI lawyers in both Northern and Southern California.
DUI Law Firms
A listing of attorneys and firms in the state of California and across the United states, recommended by Lawrence Taylor.
(Please note: Mr. Taylor does not receive referral fees for these recommendations.)
DUI Legal Specialization
This article in the “American Bar Association Journal” discusses the ever increasing number of specialized lawyers representing clients in the complicated field of drunk driving defense.
National College for DUI Defense
This is a distinguished professional and educational organization that holds an in-depth 3-day seminar at Harvard Law School every July. Comprised of around 300 drunk driving defense attorneys, the National College for DUI Defense provides a listing of attorneys including both bios and locations.
