How to Choose the Right DUI Defense Attorney

You probably know that when you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence, you should talk to an Augusta DUI attorney right away. If you’re like most people, you may be less sure about how to find the right DUI defense lawyer for you. Here’s what you need to know.

Experience Counts in DUI Defense

Criminal and civil cases are different, and there are special considerations and defenses associated with different types of criminal cases. That means not every good attorney is a good DUI defense attorney. A general practice lawyer who handles a wide range of civil and criminal matters may only take on a DUI case occasionally. That means it takes a lot longer to build up the experience a lawyer gains focusing on criminal defense.

Augusta DUI lawyer J. Todd Mitchell has focused his legal career on criminal defense law since 2011, first with the Augusta Public Defender’s Office and then in private practice. He served as Managing Attorney for the Felony & Appellate Division of the Public Defender’s Office, overseeing more than 20 attorneys.

Your Augusta DUI Lawyer Should Be Prepared to Go to Trial

You’ve probably heard that the vast majority of criminal cases in Georgia and throughout the U.S. are resolved by plea agreement. That’s true, and often negotiating for a favorable plea is the best outcome for the defendant. Working out a plea agreement can save you time, stress, and money, and can reduce the risks you face.

That said, if you are going to enter a plea, you want the best deal possible. One way a DUI defense attorney can put pressure on the prosecution to offer a good deal is to investigate and prepare the case for trial, then show the prosecution how they may be able to win the case in court. Of course, that leverage only works if the prosecution believes that the defense attorney is ready and able to try the case.

Sometimes, a DUI Trial is Your Best Option

Not every case is appropriate for a plea agreement. Sometimes the prosecution won’t offer a fair deal. Sometimes the case is so weak that your Augusta DUI attorney will suggest that it’s worth the risk to go to trial. Sometimes the stakes are simply too high–especially if the DUI charge isn’t a first offense or involves injury or some other factor that may increase the penalties.

In that situation, you’ll need a DUI defense lawyer who isn’t afraid to go to court, and who has the experience to fight your case effectively. Attorney J. Todd Mitchell has tried and won many Augusta criminal cases and knows how to navigate a criminal trial if that’s the best option for you.

Trust Matters with Your DUI Defense Lawyer

Skill and experience are critical when you’re choosing an Augusta DUI lawyer, but they’re not the only factors. A successful relationship with your defense attorney goes a long way. You’ll need to be able to trust your attorney and rely on their advice, and you’ll need to be comfortable being honest with your lawyer about sometimes awkward or embarrassing information.

The best way to find out how well you’ll be able to work with an Augusta DUI attorney is to schedule a consultation. During the consultation, you can ask the attorney about their experience with cases like yours and their trial experience. You can also get information about the charges you’re facing, possible penalties, and an early assessment of what you might expect as the case moves forward. But you should also use that time to evaluate your interactions with the attorney and ensure that they listen, take your concerns seriously and answer your questions clearly.

Attorney J. Todd Mitchell offers free consultations to people charged with DUI and other crimes in and around Augusta, so you have the information you need to make the right decision for your future. You can schedule yours right now by calling (706) 750-0501 or filling out our contact form.

Gathering Information about August DUI Lawyers

Now that you know what you’re looking for in a DUI defense attorney, where should you start?

You might initially find options by asking friends or family for referrals, searching the internet, or looking in a legal directory. The real work starts once you’ve identified one or more options. Then, you can:

• Read the attorney’s bio or website to learn more about their practice and ensure that they have the right focus for your needs–one that involves a heavy concentration in criminal defense
• Look for reviews online and read testimonials on the attorney’s website–no one knows what it’s like to put their future in the lawyer’s hands better than people who have been through that experience
• Make the most of your consultation by preparing questions and remaining alert to how the attorney engages with you during your consultation
• Make sure to find out who you will be working with at the firm–some large law firms have a senior attorney meet with you initially, then hand your case off to someone you haven’t even met, and who may have less experience

Talk to an Augusta DUI Attorney as Soon as Possible

The sooner you choose your DUI defense lawyer, the better. Having an experienced advocate in your corner means you don’t have to navigate early court hearings on your own and don’t have to take the risk of talking to the prosecuting attorney. If you’re in jail, it’s even more important to talk to an attorney right away, as they may be able to get your bond reduced and get you back to work and back to your family while your case moves forward. An early start also gives your DUI lawyer the best opportunity to fully investigate and develop your case without having to delay the proceedings.

The first step is to schedule a consultation. Not all criminal defense attorneys offer free consultations, but J. Todd Mitchell understands how important that first meeting is to get you the information you need as soon as possible. Call (706) 750-0501 right now to get started.