5 Tips for Hiring a DWI Lawyer in New Jersey

Driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in New Jersey, with penalties that can include jail time, fines, and loss of license. If you have been charged with a DWI, it is important to hire an experienced attorney to help you fight the charges.

Here are 5 tips for hiring a DWI lawyer in New Jersey:

1. Look for an attorney who has experience handling DWI cases. The best way to find an experienced DWI lawyer is to ask for referrals from friends or family members who have been through the same situation. You can also search online for DWI lawyers in your area. Once you have a few names, schedule consultations with each one to learn more about their experience and qualifications.
2. Make sure the attorney is licensed to practice law in New Jersey. This may seem like a no-brainer, but it is important to make sure that the attorney you hire is licensed to practice law in the state where you were charged with the DWI.
3. Get a clear understanding of the attorney's fees. Before you hire an attorney, get a clear understanding of their fees. You should know how much they charge for an initial consultation, how they bill for their time, and what their fees are for representing you at trial.
4. Ask the attorney about their success rate. When you meet with an attorney, ask them about their success rate in DWI cases. This will give you a good idea of their track record and whether they are likely to be successful in your case.
5. Trust your instincts. Ultimately, the best way to choose a DWI lawyer is to trust your instincts. If you feel comfortable with an attorney and believe that they are competent and experienced, then they are probably the right lawyer for you.

What to Expect When Hiring a DWI Lawyer

Once you have hired a DWI lawyer, they will begin working on your case. The first step is to gather evidence and build a defense. Your attorney will investigate the circumstances of your arrest, review the police reports, and interview witnesses. They will also file motions to suppress evidence and challenge the prosecution's case.

If your case goes to trial, your attorney will present your defense to the jury. They will argue that you were not intoxicated at the time of your arrest or that the police did not have probable cause to stop you.

No matter what the outcome of your case, a DWI lawyer can help you protect your rights and get the best possible result.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a DWI Lawyer

There are several common mistakes that people make when hiring a DWI lawyer. Here are a few things to avoid:

• Hiring a lawyer who is not experienced in DWI cases. This is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. You need an attorney who knows the ins and outs of DWI law and has a proven track record of success.
• Hiring a lawyer who is not licensed to practice law in New Jersey. This is another important mistake to avoid. Only attorneys who are licensed to practice law in New Jersey can represent you in a DWI case.
• Not getting a clear understanding of the attorney's fees. Before you hire an attorney, get a clear understanding of their fees. You should know how much they charge for an initial consultation, how they bill for their time, and what their fees are for representing you at trial.
• Not asking the attorney about their success rate. When you meet with an attorney, ask them about their success rate in DWI cases. This will give you a good idea of their track record and whether they are likely to be successful in your case.

Effective Strategies for Hiring a DWI Lawyer

Here are some effective strategies for hiring a DWI lawyer:

• Get referrals from friends or family members. This is a great way to find an experienced DWI lawyer who has a good reputation.
• Search online for DWI lawyers in your area. This is another good way to find a qualified lawyer.
• Attend DUI law workshops or seminars. This is a great way to learn more about DWI law and the legal process.
• Contact local bar associations. Bar associations can provide you with a list of qualified DWI lawyers in your area.
• Interview several lawyers before making a decision. This is the best way to find a lawyer who is a good fit for you.

Tables

| Table 1: New Jersey DWI Penalties |
|---|---|
| Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% to .09% | $250 to $400 fine, 30 days in jail, and 6-month license suspension |
| BAC of .10% to .19% | $500 to $1,000 fine, 30 to 90 days in jail, and 1-year license suspension |
| BAC of .20% or higher | $1,000 to $5,000 fine, 90 days to 1 year in jail, and 2-year license suspension |
| Second DWI offense within 10 years | $1,000 to $5,000 fine, 2 to 5 years in jail, and 2-year license suspension |
| Third DWI offense within 10 years | $2,000 to $10,000 fine, 5 to 10 years in jail, and 3-year license suspension |

| Table 2: New Jersey DWI Trial Statistics |
|---|---|
| Number of DWI trials in 2021 | 10,000 |
| Percentage of DWI trials that resulted in a conviction | 80% |
| Average length of a DWI trial | 3 days |

| Table 3: New Jersey DWI Lawyer Fees |
|---|---|
| Initial consultation | $100 to $250 |
| Hourly rate | $150 to $300 |
| Trial fee | $5,000 to $10,000 |

| Table 4: New Jersey DWI Lawyer Referral Services |
|---|---|
| New Jersey State Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service | 1-800-242-7346 |
| New Jersey Association for Justice Lawyer Referral Service | 1-888-655-3922 |