How To Choose a DUI Attorney

Selecting the right DUI attorney can make or break your case, which is why you need to know how to choose the right fit for you. A great defense attorney might not be the best fit for you if they don’t have specific DUI experience, and even an experienced DUI attorney could be a poor choice if they aren’t reputable and knowledgeable. How To Choose a DUI AttorneyAlso, if your case is unique, or if your DUI arrest included additional charges you need to work with someone who has the knowledge and resources necessary to provide you with the counsel and legal defense you need and deserve. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the attributes you should look for in a good DUI attorney.

Qualified

Before you move forward with a legal representative, you need to make sure they are qualified and able to take your case. Upon your initial meeting, don’t hesitate to ask about their education, legal experience, their standing with their local bar, and any other certifications they may have earned during their years in practice. To ensure your case has the best chance of a successful resolution, you need to work with someone knowledgeable and in good standing.

Experienced

Even an exceptional attorney might not be the best fit for you if they do not have relevant experience that relates to your particular case. Find out what type of experience they have handling cases like yours, and don’t be afraid to ask for specifics. Ask about what they would recommend for your situation, after all, if they’ll be representing you, it’s important to understand where they’d like to take your case.

Reputable

A good reputation is extremely important when it comes to selecting the right lawyer. Find out what others have to say about your potential legal representative. Ask about reviews from past clients, reviews from reputable legal rating services, etc. You might also ask your attorney about past awards they’ve received.

DUI Charges

A criminal charge of any kind can ruin your future opportunities. Not only are arrests, charges, and convictions a part of your permanent criminal record, but your records are accessible to the public and employers. It can also be difficult to find housing and educational opportunities. Most schools refuse financial aid to potential students with DUI or drug charges. It is important to understand that West Virginia is particularly strict with DUI cases, so you must enlist the help of a qualified attorney.

Let The Wagner Law Firm Help You

Selecting the right attorney for your DUI case is extremely important, which is why you need to be prepared to ask pointed questions during your initial consultation. Consider what’s most important to you, and make sure you choose an attorney you can trust. Attorney Wagner is a premier DUI lawyer in West Virginia and has literally written the book on DUI legal practice. His award-winning and prestigious career is a testament to his dedication to his clients and the field of law. At The Wagner Law Firm, we’re committed to our clients, and we always put forth our best effort to achieve favorable results for our clients. Whatever your concerns, we invite you to contact our team to find out how we can help.

Call (304) 461-6000 today to discuss your DUI case with our attorneys at The Wagner Law Firm.

Harley Wagner Avatar

Harley Wagner

Attorney Thomas M. Cooley School of Law, National College for DUI Defense, West Virginia State Bar

Harley has represented over 3,000 citizens throughout West Virginia. He is the author of West Virginia DUI Defense, The Law and Practice, which is the go to handbook for many magistrates, judges, defense attorneys, prosecutors, and law enforcement throughout West Virginia. has been selected for inclusion in West Virginia Super Lawyers® eight times.

He maintains an AV Preeminent® Rating by with Martindale-Hubbell®, an Avvo Rating of 10.0, and an excellent annual rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Harley is also the past president of the national DUI Defense Lawyers Association (2020-2021) which he was Charter Member and founder of in 2014

Areas of Expertise: DUI Defense, Aggravated DUI, Alternative Sentencing, Boating Under the Influence, Commercial License DUI, DMV Hearings, DUI Drugs, DUI with Injury, DUI Causing Death, Out-of-State Resident DUI, DUI Immigration Consequences, DUI with Minor in Vehicle, DUI Child Endangerment, Fleeing a DUI, Felony DUI, Permitting DUI, Underage DUI, Multiple DUI, First-Offense DUI, Second-Offense DUI, Third-Offense DUI, DUI Testing, Field Sobriety Tests, Breathalyzer, Blood Testing, DUI Info Center, College Student DUI, DUI Checkpoints, DUI Court Dates, DUI Deferral Program, Implied Consent, Test & Lock Program, FAQ, DUI Penalties, Administrative License Revocation, Ignition Interlock Device, License Suspension