Reckless driving is a serious misdemeanor offense in Virginia with harsh punishments and long-term consequences in your life. An experienced reckless driving lawyer if you want to achieve the best possible outcome in your criminal case. Before deciding which attorney to trust to defend you, here are questions you should ask.
Five Questions to Ask When Interviewing Reckless Driving Lawyers
You should obtain referrals from friends and family and research reckless driving attorneys on the internet when deciding who to hire. Once you narrow down your choices, you should take advantage of any offers of a free initial consultation and interview them. Here are five questions to ask at your appointment:
#1: Why Do I Need to Hire an Attorney?
Given the severe punishments you face if you are convicted of reckless driving, it is best to hire a skilled reckless driving lawyer to defend you—even if you are guilty. The lawyer should explain how they plan to assist you and how their representation will benefit you at your initial consultation.
#2: How Long Have You Been Handling Reckless Driving Cases?
You want a lawyer who has been handling reckless driving cases as part of their practice for a long time. They will understand the reckless driving laws, pursue your strong defenses, and be able to work out a plea bargain for you if this is your best option.
#3: How Have You Helped Other Clients Charged With Reckless Driving?
You need a lawyer who has successfully resolved reckless driving cases for other clients through plea bargains and trial verdicts. Selecting an attorney who is not afraid to take your case to trial if this is in your best interests is essential.
#4: What Are My Options?
The attorney should explain your potential defenses to the reckless charges you face and your options if you decide to plead guilty or fight the charges. It is crucial that you understand what could happen in your case and that you and your lawyer will be working toward the same goal.
#5: How Much Do You Charge?
You should ask the lawyer about their attorney fees and any other costs you will be responsible for paying if you hire them. They should also explain what payment options they offer. If you decide to retain them, you and the attorney should sign a contract, often referred to as a retainer agreement, that states your agreement on their fees.