Hiring an Attorney for DUI Matters in Cook County

When you are facing DUI charges, it is very important to hire a skilled lawyer to represent your interests in court. Illinois DUI law is not just about alcohol, but also includes impairment due to illegal drugs and even prescription medication.

A good attorney for DUI matters in Cook County will thoroughly examine all evidence brought against you to create a detailed defense strategy. You can find a knowledgeable attorney by searching for three characteristics.

1. Experience

In the State of Illinois, DUI charges are criminal cases that carry severe consequences. In addition to hefty fines, a DUI conviction can result in jail time and the loss of your driving privileges. Having an experienced attorney can help to minimize the impact of a DUI conviction on your life, relationships and career.

The best way to evaluate an attorney is to meet them in person and discuss your case. Ask the attorney what percentage of their practice is devoted to DUI’s and whether they regularly attend workshops to keep up with ever changing Illinois DUI laws.

Ask the attorney about his or her track record of success in defending DUI matters and what penalties you might face if convicted. Also ask about the length of time a DUI conviction stays on your criminal record in your particular state. Hal M. Garfinkel is an experienced Cook County criminal defense attorney and can be reached 24/7 via phone, fax or e-mail for a free initial consultation about your situation.

2. Reputation

When it comes to DUI cases, the consequences can be severe. They include jail time, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. Having an experienced Cook County DUI attorney on your side may help you avoid these harsh penalties.

In addition to having experience handling a wide variety of traffic law cases, you will want an attorney who has a good reputation in the community. Check the internet to see what other clients have had to say about his or her work.

You will also want an attorney who has a solid understanding of the judges and prosecutors in your area. While this won’t guarantee a win, it will help your case. For instance, knowing that the prosecutor in your case is a stickler for accuracy and detail can make a big difference. A skilled Cook County DUI lawyer will know how to challenge breathalyzer tests for errors. This is a common defense that can be successful in DUI cases.

3. Knowledge of the Law

If you were arrested for DUI in Chicago, Rolling Meadows, Bolingbrook or any other town in Cook County, a skilled DUI attorney will review your case and come up with an effective strategy to allow you to retain the right to drive, avoid a criminal conviction on your record and minimize the penalties. Your attorney will also be able to advise you of the eligibility for Court Supervision which can allow first time DUI offenders to keep their licenses and avoid a conviction on their records.

It is also important that your attorney be knowledgeable of the Judges in the Cook County courts and the prosecutors. This will not guarantee a successful outcome but it can make a difference. An attorney who knows the prosecutors can use this knowledge to anticipate how they will present their cases and focus their efforts on areas where they can get the best results for their clients. A former prosecutor will be able to do this better than anyone else.

4. Fees

A DUI conviction in Cook County can cost you a lot of money in fines, prison time, and revocation of your driving privilege. There are also other costs associated with the case including alcohol education classes, towing and storage charges for your vehicle, and increased auto insurance rates.

A good DUI attorney will charge a fair rate for their services. They will discuss the fees charged for their representation with you during your consultation. Look for a flat fee arrangement rather than an hourly rate.

A reputable DUI defense lawyer should be licensed to practice in Illinois and in good standing with the bar association. You should also make sure that they have extensive experience handling DUI cases and the specialized criminal issues involved. They should be knowledgeable of forensic science and the special civil procedures that are unique to DUI defense. They should also be familiar with the particular judges and prosecutors in the area where you were arrested.