Reader’s Question:

A friend of mine was charged with DUI here in Jacksonville, Florida for the first time. We know some lawyers around who can possibly help her out but none of them is a DUI lawyer. These lawyers are so-called general practitioners. Can any lawyer defend my friend on her DUI case?

Matt

Jacksonville, FL

If somebody asks me for help regarding any legal matter, my response will be to consult someone expert in the field. Since your friend was charged for DUI, she needs to inquire with the state bar association or call the lawyers you know to try to locate an expert in handling DUI cases in Florida.

Most lawyers would agree to represent your friend even if they have not handled a DUI case before. The lawyer may advise her to plead guilty and work out an arrangement with the court to keep her license with the least possible suspension time. The lawyer may not adequately investigate the facts of the case or get other evidence and copies of documents that are readily available through discovery.

Your friend has to bear in mind the possible consequences she might have if she will be represented by someone who does not specializes in Florida DUI cases. These consequences include possible incarceration even for first time offenders, fines, driver’s license suspension, probation, community service, and mandatory counselling or alcohol treatment. Worse consequence is an increase on the insurance rates, even before conviction, if her coverage is not cancelled.

She has to think over this matter again and again. A DUI charge can be life-changing so make sure she hires a legal representation who is an expert and have actually gone to court on DUI cases.