DUI Attorney instead of New Jersey Dwi Attorney
What Your DUI Attorney Will Educate You About
One of the benefits of having a New Jersey DUI attorney is that he will explain to you the elements of the DUI offense that you are charged with, the consequences of conviction, strategies for how to fight the charge, and the matter of finances.
First, your DUI lawyer should explain to you, in clear and understandable language, what the elements of a DUI offense are. The prosecutor must prove each and every one of these elements beyond a reasonable doubt in order to get a conviction. If there is one element missing, your lawyer will ask you for more information in order to help you get acquitted.
Your DUI lawyer will also explain to you what the drunk driving (or other underlying) charge entails, as well as the following:
- Every defense available to you;
- All possible fines;
- Possible civil liability if there was an accident involved;
- Possible suspension or revocation of your driver’s license;
- Alcohol education or diversion programs as an alternative to sentencing; and
- Increased insurance rates.
Your New Jersey DUI attorney should also talk to you about perjury (which is the act of knowingly lying under oath) and the importance of telling the truth if you testify in trial. Your lawyer should let you know that perjury can have dire consequences for you: you might face penalties in the court, and your lawyer might have to take certain steps if he knows about your intention to perjure yourself.
Of utmost importance is a frank discussion with your New Jersey Dwi attorney about the fee arrangement. Your lawyer will have you verify, in writing, that he explained to you the fee arrangement and that you accepted the terms explained to you. The terms will include a retainer amount (if there is one), charges for obtaining expert testimony, a designation of who will shoulder the costs of any disbursements, and an appraisal of the total charges. Having this discussion is part of your lawyer’s ethical duty, and this will avoid any disagreements or misunderstandings in the future.
If you’ve been charged with a DUI, let New Jersey Dwi Lawyer Dan T. Matrafajlo help you. Simply fill out the form on this page for a free initial consultation.
