5 Things to Look for on a DUI Lawyer's Website
When you're searching for a DUI lawyer online and click on an attorney or law firm's website, what exactly should you be looking for?
You may have already concluded that you need an attorney's help for your DUI case, but you could probably use some guidance to further narrow your attorney options. Comparing several lawyers' websites can help you choose an attorney who's the right fit for you.
Finding the perfect DUI attorney isn't all that difficult, especially with the Internet at your fingertips. Here are five things to look for on a prospective DUI lawyer's website:
- A free (or low-cost) initial consultation. You want an attorney who can sit down and consult with you before you hire him or her, not after. For those who are financially strapped, you'll probably want to find an attorney who offers a free initial consultation for DUI cases. Without the pressure of paying for this initial step, you'll be free to ask as many questions as you'd like. If a lawyer's website does not mention free consultations, it doesn't hurt to call and ask.
- An attorney who speaks your language. You may feel more comfortable with a firm that offers consultations in Spanish, Chinese, Tagalog, etc., as well as English. A number of attorneys will list this information on their websites, inviting clients of all native tongues to give them a call.
- Accolades. Within the field of DUI attorneys, there will be some who distinguish themselves by their work. One quick way to suss out the top attorneys is to check for various accolades on their websites. Many attorneys will have the Better Business Bureau accreditation, which may demonstrate trustworthiness and honesty in business practice. Others may be listed as Super Lawyers, which means they were chosen by a patented, rigid selection process. (Like FindLaw, Super Lawyers is also owned by Thomson Reuters.)
- Publications. News articles and scholarly publications can give you more insight into the success and experience of your potential DUI attorney. Look for notable local news articles about successful cases similar to yours. You may also want to check to see if the attorney has been published in any peer-reviewed legal journals.
- Testimonials. Sites like Yelp have proven that, on average, testimonials can provide useful information about a business. Check to see if your prospective DUI lawyer touts client testimonials and feedback on his or her own website, and see what's been written about the law firm on review websites.
None of these things to look for on a DUI attorney's website can guarantee a great DUI attorney, but these distinctions can make a tough decision easier. To learn more, check out FindLaw's page on Hiring a DUI Lawyer.
Related Resources:
- Find a DUI Attorney in Your Area (FindLaw)
- Do You Get a Public Defender for a DUI Case? (FindLaw's Blotter)
- DUI Lawyer or Public Defender? Pros and Cons (FindLaw's Blotter)
- Got a DUI? 5 Ways FindLaw Can Help (That Won't Cost You a Dime) (FindLaw's Insider)