{"id":30197,"date":"2016-10-06T10:46:43","date_gmt":"2016-10-06T10:46:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-legal\/legal\/practice\/how-to-do-a-dui-client-intake.html"},"modified":"2025-03-18T12:30:18","modified_gmt":"2025-03-18T12:30:18","slug":"how-to-do-a-dui-client-intake","status":"publish","type":"practice","link":"https:\/\/lp.findlaw.com\/legal\/practice\/law-marketing\/how-to-do-a-dui-client-intake.html","title":{"rendered":"How to Do a DUI Client Intake"},"content":{"rendered":"
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You\u2019ve set up your criminal defense practice<\/a> — complete with a sleek new mobile device, a great shared office space, and state-of-the art billing system. Now you are ready for clients.<\/p>\n

To start off your career, driving under the influence (DUI) crimes can be the bread and butter of your practice. With over 1.1 million drivers arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol<\/a> or narcotics in 2014 alone, you won\u2019t be at a shortage for potential clients. But the bigger question comes up, how do you conduct a DUI client intake? And how do you convert that initial intake meeting into a paying client<\/a>? Below you will find key information on how to conduct a client intake meeting, convert the potential client into a paying client, and maintain a lasting relationship that can foster future business for your DUI practice.<\/p>\n

Start with a Simple Phone Call<\/b><\/p>\n

If you already have a DUI client lead, be sure to reach out to the client as soon as possible. Why? Because in a criminal case, specifically a DUI, time is of the essence. There are a number of important deadlines dictated by the criminal rules of procedure in your state, as well as through constitutional rights to a speedy trial.<\/p>\n

If your client was recently arrested for a misdemeanor DUI offense<\/a>, they will have an upcoming DUI arraignment. Ideally you will be present at the arraignment and handle the case from start to finish. If your client is in custody, it is even more important you meet with them to determine whether you will be retained and to help argue for reduced bail.<\/p>\n

A personal phone call is perhaps the best practice for creating an initial client bond. The client wants to know that they are dealing with a real person, not a fancy, “I\u2019m too busy for you” law firm. Impersonal communications through email or a legal secretary fail to nourish the initial attorney-client relationship<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Have an In-Person Client Meeting<\/b><\/p>\n

Now that you\u2019ve scheduled the initial client meeting, remember to conduct a full client intake interview. This is a reciprocal chance for the client to learn about you and for you to also learn about the client. Careful client selection<\/a> is an important aspect of a successful practice. Is this someone you will want to represent? Will this person be able to afford your fee? Sometimes a client may look a financial risk on paper, but when you conduct a careful client intake, you learn they have several sources of assets or persons willingly to help with their legal fees.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Next, try to anticipate your potential client\u2019s questions<\/a>. For many clients this is their first exposure to the criminal justice system. They are likely scared or confused and need reassurance that their future attorney is an authority on the subject and has a steadfast approach to a DUI defense. Be clear that you can\u2019t guarantee any particular outcome, but you can offer them a clear understanding of the law and strong advocacy on their behalf.<\/p>\n

So, what are some potential questions a client may have? You don\u2019t have to answer every question at the initial interview, but it is good to be prepared. Here are a few:<\/p>\n