When I say “bad sheriff,” it’s with a bit of humor. Those familiar with my 1000+ weekly legal columns, know I have the utmost respect for law enforcement. I’m likely still the only Coachella Valley attorney honored with a local police badge and police ID. I’ve proudly supported the 1199 Foundation (Officer Needs Help) for decades and was a main supporter for the Peace Officer Appreciation Day Lunch. The police chiefs for each division were guests at my table and each received a thank you gift.
That said, if you’ve found yourself, OK, at the “Corral” (Jail) after a DUI arrest, the big question becomes: How do you find the right DUI lawyer? Choosing the right lawyer is critical to protecting your rights, CDL, and future. As I have said before “DON’T GET MATCHING TATTOOS ON A FIRST DATE…AND DON’T GET A TV/BILLBOARD 1-800 ADVERTISING LAWYER.”
Calling a non-local, 1-800, TV/Billboard advertising lawyer with slogans and jingles: “my lawyer got me”; “just call X ”, “Y will fight for you” etc. is a mistake. Many aren’t local and just rent a small office or use a desk to interview clients. Your future self will thank you.
After all, you wouldn’t call an advertising brain surgeon would you? Why would it be different if you needed a DUI lawyer.
HOW TO FIND A GOOD DUI (OR PI) LAWYER:
- Seek Referrals and Recommendations:
- Ask trusted sources: your current lawyer, accountant, financial advisor, or friends. My favorite remembrance is when a celebrity VIP client’s, lawyer, doctor and financial advisor ALL referred me.
- Contact your local, county, or state bar association; many offer lawyer referral services.
- Use online directories like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, Lawyers.com, NOLO, Justia, and Google for lawyer profiles, ratings, client reviews, and disciplinary records.
- Look for attorneys with at least 20 years of experience. Better yet, talk to one who has practiced 40+ years for insights into good younger lawyers.
- Research Potential Lawyers:
- Review their online profiles: Were they a DA, Public Defender, or Judge?
- Read reviews to get a sense of their communication style, professionalism, and client satisfaction.
- Confirm they are in good standing with the state bar.
- Interview Potential Lawyers:Narrow your list and set up consultations. Ask:
- Experience:
- How long have you practiced law?
- How many DUI cases have you handled?
- What percentage of your practice is DUI defense?
- Are you familiar with the laws and procedures for my type of case?
- How often do you appear in the court assigned to my case?
- What is your relationship with local DAs and Judges?
- Case Strategy and Communication:
- What strategies do you recommend?
- What are the possible outcomes and odds of success?
- How long will my case likely take?
- How often will you update me? Who else in your office will work on my case?
- Fees and Costs:
- What is your fee structure?
- Do you require a retainer? What does it cover?
- Will there be additional costs (e.g., court fees, expert witnesses)?
- Will I get a written fee agreement and itemized billing?
- Approach and Philosophy:
- Are you aggressive or more settlement-focused?
- Are you aligned with my goals for the case?
- Potential Conflicts of Interest:
- Do you have any conflicts that could impact representing me?
- Important Considerations:
- Cost vs. Quality: Cheap isn’t always best. You can’t have champagne taste on a beer budget.
- Location: Hire a local lawyer familiar with your specific courthouse and its players.
- Legal Aid: If money is tight, you might qualify for a Public Defender.
By following these steps, you improve your odds of finding a strong advocate who knows the local courts and has the experience to navigate your situation effectively.
PLAN AHEAD, and decide now, whom you would call if you’re ever facing a DUI (or accident) emergency. When stressed, people make poor decisions. You already have a plumber and electrician’s number ready — why not a lawyers?
Remember, like a placekicker in football, a DUI lawyer may not seem important until you desperately need one!
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________GIVE THIS CARD TO OFFICER
Upon attorney Dale Gribow’s advice, I exercise my Right To Remain Silent, until you contact him: 760.837.7500 or dale@dalegribowlaw.com, because he says
“it’s’s not what you say, but what they thought you said!”
Dale advises, “the VOLUNTARY FIELD SOBRIETY (FST) AND VOLUNTARY “PORTABLE” BREATH TEST, at the scene, are OPTIONAL (unless one is on probation).
Thus, I ELECT not to take them. I want to cooperate and I’m happy to take a BLOOD TEST.”
DON’T DRINK & DRIVE. Impaired Driving = Drunk Driving and Uber is cheaper than me! After a FREE 360 ACCIDENT/DUI Case Analysis Consultation (760-837-7500, dale@dalegribowlaw.com), you may not need a Lawyer! “If not retained, I will direct you to a more budget-friendly lawyer…honestly.” Remain Silent! It’s not what you said. It’s what the police/insurance company…thought you said!
They are Not on your side; you are Not in good hands and your friendly neighbor will Not give you a piece of the rock.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Dale Gribow is a multi-award-winning DUI/ CAR ACCIDENT LAWYER | with career awards: 35-Top Lawyer | 5-Star | 10.0. He is experienced and recognized for excellence and trustworthiness, with the highest possible ratings from the most respected national legal rating publications, reflecting the confidential opinions of Judges and Attorneys…Martindale/Avvo; Google, Justia, Nolo, Lawyers.com, Expertise.com.
These validated: 9 Man of the Year | 4 Dale Gribow Days | Mr. Charity- recognizing dozens of philanthropic awards…confirming he is “the best”. Cases are limited. Dale personally answers all calls.
