| Before scouting around for a DUI (driving under the | | | | general rule, the good lawyers take on fewer clients |
| influence) attorney, it is best to know some important | | | | and devote more time to studying their cases. |
| points, especially when it comes to their professional | | | | Lawyer's fees go up when the offense is considered |
| fees. | | | | a felony, if the offender has prior convictions, if there |
| Ask yourself: Are the fees explained in detail? Is there | | | | are additional retrials or appeals, or if there are |
| a written contract explaining the fees to be charged? | | | | additional litigation costs of handling an administrative |
| You should know if the lawyer's fee is simply on a | | | | offense on license suspension. |
| retainer basis or if it is inclusive of all costs in the | | | | Your attorney may either charge a fixed fee that |
| litigation process. Also determine whether the charges | | | | covers everything or he can also ask for a retainer |
| cover other incidental expenses such as license | | | | fee in advance, charged on an hourly basis. Other |
| hearings, testimonies of experts, costs of subpoena, | | | | costs, such as fees of expert witnesses, independent |
| blood reanalysis and other expenses incurred during | | | | blood analysis and fees on serving subpoenas, may |
| the course of the hearing. | | | | translate to extra costs on your end. |
| The fees charged by a lawyer vary according to his | | | | Remember to ask for a written contract on the fees |
| experience and reputation, along with the state where | | | | quoted and be sure to understand the details of the |
| he is practicing. As a general rule, the higher the skill | | | | written agreement. |
| and the larger the city, the higher the fees. | | | | Keep these points in mind when you are scouting |
| Another factor that affects DUI attorney fees is the | | | | around for the best DUI lawyer your money can |
| amount of time the lawyer spends on the case. As a | | | | afford. |