Choosing the Right DWI Lawyer in Houston
When charged with a DWI offense in Houston, TX, one of the most important decisions you will ever make is choosing who will defend you when you have your day in court. You do not need to go through this traumatic time alone and having the right Houston DWI attorney by your side to guide you through the trial process, prepare a viable case and reassure you—while at the same time being up front and honest—are both a mental and legal necessity.
You should contact a DWI lawyer in Houston as soon you can after being charged with the offense. The sooner you have made a decision about who you are going to use, the better. You want a lawyer to begin working on your defense as soon as possible, but that does not mean you should choose just any lawyer out of the phone book. Do your homework before making any commitments.
First, make sure your lawyer specializes in DWI cases. Your Houston DWI lawyer should also have a lot of courtroom experience, and especially have experience in the jurisdiction your case will be heard in. The more familiar your attorney is with the local court, the better your outcome may be. You can contact the Texas bar association for a list of attorneys in your area, and also ask around. You may be surprised that there are others you know who have faced these charges and may have a lawyer they can recommend for you. Judges and police officers also are known for recommending DWI lawyers. Once you have contacted a few a few attorneys, meet with them in person. Choosing a lawyer over the phone is never a good idea. Ask your potential lawyer questions about his or her experience. Queries can include how many DWI cases they have tried in the past year, what portion of their practice is dedicated exclusively to DWI offenses and are they experienced in investigating DWI cases. Up front and honest answers without any hesitation is one of the best ways to know if this is the lawyer for you.
You will want to have a good rapport with whichever DWI attorney in Houston you choose. Feeling comfortable with your lawyer as a person and a professional at the same time is of the utmost importance. A good relationship with your lawyer can open up the communication lines and communication is one of the best defenses against any offense.