Getting pulled over is a nerve-racking experience. Whether you were doing something blatantly against the law or going a few miles over the speed limit, getting pulled over has the potential to ruin your day. Traffic violations can result in everything from warnings to jail time, depending on the circumstances.
In Virginia, if you’ve been charged with any traffic offense, it’s totally within your rights to fight the violation. For that, you’re going to need a qualified traffic attorney in Richmond, Virginia.
The only question is, how do you find the best attorney? We can help.
Whether you’re fighting a speeding ticket, a reckless driving summons, or a DUI charge, keep reading for a quick guide on how to choose the best traffic attorney.
1. Ask for Recommendations
First, talk to the people in your circle to find suggestions for the top traffic attorney in Richmond. Your friends, family members, and co-workers might have experience working with an attorney to fight traffic violation charges.
However, if no one in your immediate contacts has any valuable advice, get on social media. For example, you can ask for recommendations on Facebook. Talk to your friends and followers or join a Richmond community Facebook page to ask the community at large for guidance.
2. Ask for a Free Case Evaluation
Once you get a few recommendations, start reaching out to the individual traffic attorneys or law firms. Ask if they offer free consultations or case evaluations. This can be done over the phone, through an online video chat, or in person.
This is an important step for multiple reasons.
First, the best traffic attorney in Richmond, Virginia, will be willing to compete for your business. By offering a free consultation, they’re showing you that you are important to them, even if you don’t end up hiring them.
Second, a case evaluation will help you learn more about your case. An attorney will be able to educate you about the law and what you will need to fight the charges, such as video evidence, witness testimonies, documents, etc.
Finally, a free consultation provides the right setting to get to know the attorney. Do they treat you with patience and respect? Do they seem genuinely concerned about the outcome of your case?
3. Look for Online Reviews
Before hiring a Richmond traffic attorney, do a little more research to find out about their credibility. Find the attorney or law firm online and search their website for client reviews and testimonials. What do their previous clients have to say about their legal services?
Were the clients adequately represented? Did the attorney do everything they could to help the client win their case? Would the client recommend the traffic attorney to others?
4. Ask About Pricing
Learning how to choose a traffic attorney also means making the right choice for your budget. Obviously, complex cases and more serious charges will require more in-depth legal services.
However, if you’re fighting a speeding ticket, you need to determine if the cost of the traffic attorney outweighs the costs of simply paying the fine. Conversely, some tickets are actually Reckless Driving charges that can not only lead to hefty fines and other serious penalties (like losing your license) but are actually criminal offenses and you will need to do everything you can to reduce your charge or win your case.
Not all traffic attorneys charge the same fees. Talk to your top choices to determine your best options But remember, cheaper doesn’t always mean better.
5. Consider Experience and Expertise
Next, if you’re looking for the top traffic attorney in Richmond, Virginia, to handle your case, you need to consider their experience and fields of practice. For example, if you’re being charged with a DUI or DWI, you could be facing steep consequences. This is especially true if this is not your first offense.
In this case, you need a traffic attorney who has a history of experience in these types of cases. They’ll be familiar with the laws, defenses, and fines. This makes them knowledgeable and prepared for negotiating your case and/or proving your innocence.
6. Ask About Their Caseload and Availability
When searching for the right traffic attorney in Richmond, Virginia, to represent your case, ask about the attorney’s caseload. How many other cases are they currently working on?
Most legal cases can take several months to complete. Between gathering evidence, setting up a defense, and taking the case to trial, there’s a lot of lag-time in between. As such, it’s not unusual for a traffic attorney to handle dozens of cases at once.
However, you must make sure the attorney you hire isn’t overburdened with cases. Do they have enough room in their schedule to give your case the attention it deserves?
7. Assess Their Communication Skills
Finally, find a traffic attorney who possesses quality communication skills. This applies to how they speak to you and how quickly they respond to your calls, emails, etc.
If you’re facing heavy fines and penalties, the last thing you need is an attorney who takes several days to respond to you. While you can’t expect them to drop everything, they need to be reasonably available to answer questions, address concerns, and update you on your case.
Do You Need a Traffic Attorney in Richmond, Virginia?
If you’ve recently been pulled over, arrested, or otherwise charged with traffic violations, it might be in your best interest to hire a traffic attorney in Richmond, Virginia. Take your time (if you have it) and follow the steps listed above to find the best legal professional for your case.
And if you’re ready to talk to a Richmond traffic attorney today, contact us now to schedule a free consultation. Our experienced legal team will work with you to provide support and guidance.
