How much does a good DWI attorney cost to retain in NJ?

This is a difficult question to answer in a DWI case since the attorney needs to fit you as well as the case. You need to examine the credentials of any attorney and their experience handling DWI matters. There is not a specific DWI certification in NJ at this time. A Certified Criminal Trial Attorney has a title conferred by NJ Supreme Court after completing a long application process with a written examination, judicial references, experience and continuing education requirements in criminal law and this may include DWI. This in itself does not guarantee anything but it is a place to start. The philosophy of the attorney toward DWI is the next factor and that impacts the upfront fee. There are those among the most experience in DWI that fight to the death and rarely plead. These attorneys will want a larger upfront fee because they fully intend to go to trial no matter how little the percentage of success may be. This philosophy is not wrong and breeds a highly aggressive demeanor that may yield results. Other attorneys with similar experience feel the same results can be obtained from a methodical step by step approach where a trial is demanded as a last resort when all else fails. This allows for lower upfront fees with additional fees paid as you decide to attempt further procedures as they become necessary and have a reasonable prospect of success. The final tab may look about the same if the DWI is taken to trial. The most important issue for you is that the attorney knows all the motions to file to obtain the most information and preclude the most evidence that gives you the best chance to find a hole in the case that can be exploited for success. An attorney that charges a minimum fee likely can not intend to address these issues or does not know the time involved in fighting these most important issues in a DWI case. Call my office and call around. is a place to start for rating and reviews.

The only way you can figure out the right attorney for you is to speak with several and try to read reviews about them, if available. The right attorney is skilled and knowledgable, but also communicates well and is responsive. Things such as location of the incident, the lawyer's overhead, the lawyer's experience, and the client's finances affect the retainer that will be required. I'd be happy to speak with you about your situation and offer you a quote and an explanation of the process.

The cost for legal representation on this type of case can vary depending on the lawyer and the agreement that you come to with respect to the fee. The most important thing is to make sure that you interview attorney's to find out who is going to be the best fit for you. These initial consultations should be free and will give you a better idea as to what lawyer you feel comfortable hiring. I would suggest searching for attorneys in your area on this as well as contacting your local bar association for a list of DUI specific lawyers. Good luck in your search.