Retain a Michigan DUI Lawyer Who Has a Clean Record
A very important part of researching attorneys that is often overlooked is whether your prospective Michigan DUI attorney has a clean record. Obviously, this would include any criminal violations, but generally we’re talking about any disciplinary actions taken against the drunk driving lawyer by the state bar association, malpractice suits filed against him or her, and also whether you feel that you can trust the attorney.
Regarding, disciplinary actions against Michigan drunk driving attorneys, check with the Attorney Disciplinary Board or the Attorney Grievance Commission with the State Bar of Michigan. They investigate and discipline lawyers for misconduct. This can include violating the rules of professional conduct and committing criminal acts, such as fraud and embezzlement of client funds. To investigate attorneys licensed in other states, contact the American Bar Association to get the contact information for each state board of professional responsibility.
You will also want to inquire about any legal malpractice suits filed against the prospective Michigan DUI attorney you retain. Sometimes an attorney will unfairly get a bad reputation based simply on frivolous legal malpractice suits filed against him or her out of rage or emotion for having been convicted of drunk driving. Other times, though, an attorney may deservedly have been sued for committing legal malpractice.
Finally, use your own judgment when evaluating a prospective Michigan DUI attorney. Does he or she seem credible? If you think the drunk driving lawyer seems full of it or that he or she lacks credibility, will the jury feel the same way? Has the DUI lawyer promised you success? Be wary of this, as it can possibly be against the ethical rules to so. What about lying? Has the attorney suggested that you commit perjury? If so, this is not the kind of lawyer you want representing you.
When you speak to a prospective Michigan DUI attorney to defend you, inquire about his or her record and reputation in the legal community. Ask for references from other attorneys that have worked with him or her. Inquire with the attorney disciplinary board and pay attention to how the attorney sounds ethically.
