When it comes to charges as serious as DUI, you need to know that you are being represented by the best lawyers available. The repercussions from a DUI conviction can be significant, and devastating. How can you be sure that the Orange County DUI attorney you choose has the knowledge and skill to defend you vigorously? Doing your research now, and finding an excellent law firm before you face charges will ensure that you know who to call when you need expert advice the most.

What should you look for in a DUI lawyer?

Specialization in DUI- There are many lawyers that cover several fields of law, from accidents and injuries to DUI arrests. However, the DUI laws in Orange County, California are an intricate and complex legal discipline. A DUI firm whose attorneys specialize solely in DUI will be able to offer you the strongest defense possible.

Access to Expert Witnesses - Your DUI defense will almost certainly involve the calling of experts to the stand to testify in your defense. A strong DUI attorney will have established relationships with some of the top expert witnesses, allowing your case to be presented in the best possible light, with the support of experts in their fields.

A Proven Record - When you're facing charges of DUI in Orange County, you don't have room to gamble with your defense. Make sure your lawyer has a strong track record for successfully defending DUI cases. Ask about the firm's experience in handling cases similar to your own, and what he or she would expect to be the most likely outcome; but keep in mind that every case is different, and performance on a past case has no bearing on your case. However, a firm with a strong track record for negotiating the best possible outcomes from previous cases is a better choice than one who is new to the field.

Also check with the State Bar for any complaints against the attorney. While one or two complaints that have been resolved by the firm is generally normal, an excessive number of complaints, or a high number of unresolved cases could be an indication that you should take your business elsewhere.

Professional Affiliations- Ensure that the firm that you are looking for is truly involved in the field of DUI defense. Check for memberships and certification by organizations such as the National College for DUI Defense. Also check their rating with the Martindale-Hubbell International Directory of Attorneys. Few firms in California carry Martindale-Hubbell's highest rating for integrity; firms that do carry this rating have worked very hard to earn and maintain the trust of their clients.

Also check to see if your lawyer is listed as a SuperLawyer, which is a designation only afforded to a small group of attorneys in a specialized field of practice. Also check the lawyer's rating on Avvo.

Honesty and Integrity- Your relationship with your DUI defense attorney will require trust if it is to lead to a strong defense. Does your attorney have a clear fee schedule, that outlines all the fees you can expect to pay? Are there "hidden" charges that inflate the price beyond the original quotation? If you have any questions about the fees you will be paying, make sure to get the answers you need. Also beware of any attorneys that make promises or guarantees. No reputable attorney would make promises about the outcome of your case, as there is never a guarantee of the results of any court case.

Facing charges of DUI is often a scary and uncertain time. Knowing that you have the best defense available can help give you the ease of mind that your defense is being handled by experts, and that you stand a much stronger chance of reaching the most favorable outcome possible. Do your homework now, so that you'll know who to turn to if the unthinkable happens.