When the police charge you with driving under the influence (DUI), you should never try to defend yourself in court. Instead, look for a reputable DUI attorney, as this could be the difference between a steep sentence and a dismissal. If you want to make the best hiring choice, below are several characteristics that your lawyer should possess.

What Qualities Should a DUI Attorney Have?

1. Experience at Trial

If your case goes to trial, you’ll want an attorney that has considerable experience arguing on behalf of their clients. Unlike minor traffic violations, a DUI requires advanced arguments, so you’ll want a lawyer who can sway the judge and jury to your side. Ideally, they should have at least 10 years of experience and a strong reputation in local legal circles. This way, you know that they have memorized local and state laws, allowing your attorney to reference them in the courtroom. 

2. Attention to Detail

Often, your best chance at shaking off a DUI conviction is by finding inconsistencies or errors that the law enforcement officers made. Therefore, the attorney you choose should have impeccable attention to detail.

With this skill, they can pore over the video or audio recordings from the traffic stop, looking for issues that might dismiss your charges. They should also possess a certification from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which will arm them with a comprehensive knowledge of acceptable sobriety testing procedures. 

3. Dedication to Minimizing Charges

If your lawyer can’t argue for a dismissal of the charges, they should work to minimize them. While it might be impossible to disprove your violation, you can receive a less severe charge and more lenient penalty. Ask your prospective DUI attorney if they have experience with reducing a DUI to reckless driving. In Ohio, this would be a misdemeanor with a $150 fine, instead of fines of up to $1,075, a license suspension, and six months in jail.

If you’re facing a DUI charge, you should value conscientious and aggressive service over an inexpensive quote. For reliable representation, contact James F. Bogen, Attorney at Law. This Cincinnati, OH, DUI Attorney is certified in NHTSA field sobriety testing, and he has been fighting for his clients since 2002. To learn more about his impressive track record, visit the website. Call (513) 503-7251 to schedule a consultation.