When hiring a lawyer for a 2nd DUI, should I hire a lawyer in the city where I reside or where I was arrested?
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When hiring a lawyer for a 2nd DUI, should I hire a lawyer in the city where I reside or where I was arrested?
Asked on June 17, 2012 under Criminal Law, Texas
Answers:
B.H.F., Member, Texas State Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Either has it's advantages, however, generally hiring one where you were arrested will save you more money and, potentially, get you a better deal. First, with current gas prices, more attorneys are charging extra for the travel time, which means a higher bill for you. Second, local attorneys tend to have a better relationship with the local prosecutors. (emphasis on tend to). The better the relationship, the more success they will have in working something out on your behalf. Third, local attorneys have a better awareness of the local programs, plea bargaining trends, and the judge's sentencing habits. Not all counties are alike in Texas. What sounds like a great deal in one county, may be a horrible deal in another county. Look at Tarrant and Dallas County--even though they are side by side, their offices and prosecutorial approaches are very different. A local will be in a better position to help you evaluate the options availabel to you. Regardless of whether you hire a local or non-local attorney, find one that you are comfortable with. A DWI 2nd is just a misdemeanor, but it still impacts your life... and it's only one away from a felony. You need to trust and feel comfortable enough with this attorney to explain and tell them what happened. If you don't feel comfortable talking to the attorney about the facts of your case, move on to the next one until you do.
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