Nothing is probably worse than getting charged with DUI in Honolulu. While you can choose to fight the legal battle on your own, you should know that the consequences of conviction can be worse in Hawaii than you think. Your best bet is to have an experienced Honolulu DUI attorney on your side. If you are hiring a lawyer for the first time, here are the questions you need to ask.
How many DUI cases do you handle each month?
Don’t be surprised to know that many attorneys even take up to thirty cases per month, which is an extremely depressing thing for you as a client. You need an attorney who has the time to devote to your case. They should be able to handle each aspect of the case, starting with the investigation to filing appropriate motions and working on the defense. Don’t hire an attorney who admits to taking as many cases as they get.
Will you work on my DUI case personally?
It is not rare for DUI lawyers to pass cases to an associate. As a client, you would be overwhelmed to know that a different lawyer is representing you at the hearing, which feels almost like betrayal because you didn’t sign up for this. The attorney you met should be the one working on the case, and it is absolutely important that you confirm this.
How can I communicate with you?
You need to know whether you will have access to the lawyer you have hired. It is not unusual for attorneys to pass the number of their assistant or a paralegal from the same firm, but that will eventually impact communication in times of need. Top lawyers often don’t take chances concerning being accessible to their clients. You can expect a reliable lawyer to forward the office number to their cellphone or share an e-mail address.
What can you tell me about the ADLRO proceedings?
At the ADLRO proceedings, the officer who arrested you is expected to appear in person and testify under oath. You will typically have the upper hand if the officer doesn’t appear after being subpoenaed three times. Your lawyer shouldn’t typically waive the cops’ testimony unless you have a direct advantage for doing that. The lawyer is expected to share all details about ADLRO proceedings and how they plan to investigate the case.
Finally, don’t hire an attorney who guarantees a win. There’s no way an attorney can do that.
