If you have been charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in New Jersey, your first concern should be your defense. Expectedly, you are not a legal expert and need help. However, the cost of hiring an attorney could become an obstacle. In this post, let’s discuss how much an NJ DUI lawyer would charge for such cases.
Complexities and challenges
Each DWI case is unique. For instance, if you were involved in a minor fender bender and were mildly intoxicated, your lawyer doesn’t have much to do, as the expected sentence is likely to be light. On the contrary, if the case is complex, especially when there is a need for extensive investigation, your lawyer will charge more. In NJ, DUI/DWI penalties are steep, and you may face jail time. Losing your license can have additional consequences. While no lawyer can ever guarantee an outcome, they can certainly help minimize the penalties.
Meeting an attorney
Not all attorneys deal with DUI/DWI cases, which is why you should look for law firms that specialize in criminal law and have a team of competent and experienced lawyers. Many firms don’t charge a hefty fee for the first consultation, while others may offer a free meeting. Regardless, it would help if you considered meeting a lawyer to know the legal defenses you can consider and how they can help you.
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Affording legal help
Most criminal lawyers take a standard hourly rate, but in some cases, a flat fee could be possible. Also, if the case is expected to drag on for a long time or there is courtroom work involved, the hourly price could be higher. In addition to that, you will also have to pay a retainer fee. Considering the penalties and fines for DUI/DWI charges, paying a lawyer is always better. When you meet an attorney, you can ask for a ballpark in advance and prepare accordingly. In any situation, having a legal team defending you is a better deal.
Finding good lawyers in NJ
Online ratings and reviews can be beneficial for comparing DUI/DWI lawyers in the state. Ensure you choose an attorney who is experienced and has time to devote to the case. You should also ask about their work profile and whether they can communicate with you. The police or the prosecution are not on your side, so having access to the lawyer is critical.
