If you have been charged with a DUI in Sarasota, you should consider hiring an attorney to protect your legal rights and increase your chances of getting your charges reduced or dismissed. It’s a good idea to consult multiple DUI lawyers so that you can find one that has the training, experience, and track record necessary to improve your situation. Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. has compiled this list of questions to ask a Florida DUI lawyer so that you can find the right individual to represent you in your DUI case.
- How much experience do you have handling DUI cases?
You should find out how much experience your Florida DUI lawyer has with drunk driving cases. They may have practiced law for years but only have a limited amount of experience representing clients with DUIs. - Are you in good standing with the Florida Bar?
Even Florida DUI lawyers can get into trouble. Therefore, it’s imperative that you hire one that is in good standing with the Florida Bar. - How will you handle my specific case?
Although a DUI attorney can’t promise a certain outcome, they can outline a strategy for your specific case. By asking them how they’ll handle your case, you’ll have an idea of what to expect moving forward. - What outcomes have you secured in similar cases?
While each DUI case is unique, it’s nice to know the outcomes a DUI attorney has secured for clients that have been in a similar situation as you. - What are the costs associated with you representing me in my DUI case?
Not all DUI attorneys charge clients in the same way. Some charge hourly rates while others charge via flat fee structures. You should ask an attorney how they will charge you so that you are not surprised when it comes time to pay. - What challenges do you see with my particular case?
The Florida DUI lawyer you hire should have no problem explaining any challenges they see with your case as well as what these challenges may mean for the final outcome. - Who will be the lawyer handling my case?
Many DUI attorneys work with a team, meaning that the lawyer you may be speaking with may not be the individual that does the majority of the work for your case. You may find that an assistant attorney with less experience will be representing you throughout your case. - How available will you be throughout my entire case?
It’s vital to determine a DUI lawyer’s availability before hiring them. Find out whether they’ll be able to answer your questions and address your concerns on the evenings and weekends. Ask whether they’d be willing to give you their cell phone number so that you can get ahold of them whenever you need to. - Are you certified to administer the standardized field sobriety tests?
If your Florida DUI lawyer is certified to administer the standardized field sobriety tests, they will know whether or not the police officer that arrested you administered them correctly. In the event that they were not properly administered, your DUI charge may be dismissed. - Have you been a prosecutor in the past? DUI lawyers in Florida who have a background in prosecuting can be extremely valuable as they understand how the other side thinks and are well-versed in DUI state laws.
Searching for an Experienced Florida DUI Lawyer in Sarasota?
If you’ve recently been arrested for a DUI, you should consult a Sarasota DUI defense attorney at Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. today. Erika Valcarcel can evaluate the details of your case and may be able to help you avoid serious penalties such as a jail or prison sentence, costly fines, a suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, and a permanent criminal record.
Call (941) 363-7900 today for a free and confidential case consultation.
View All Blogs"Erika Valcarcel, Criminal Defense Lawyer, P.A. is the best you will find. Erika Valcarcel is completely honest and straightforward. She took a huge burden off my shoulders many times during difficult periods of my life knowing that she was doing everything that that could and should be done. Her knowledge is extensive and her advice has always been right on the mark. She is worth every penny of the fee she charges. You cannot go wrong securing her services."
Joni A. | Sarasota County
Domestic Violence Charges Dismissed in 10 Days
When a client was arrested for battery after an altercation with his girlfriend, he immediately contacted attorney Erika Valcarcel. The client was adamant that the entire situation was a misunderstanding, but nevertheless he was looking at a domestic violence conviction and potentially up to a year in jail. We acted fast on his behalf and discussed the situation with the State attorney’s office. We informed the prosecutor that our client's girlfriend did not want to proceed and highlighted the weaknesses in their case. Once they were aware of these developments, we successfully arranged to have the charges dismissed. This was all before our client's first court date and impressively all done within 10 days of the initial arrest.
