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How to Become a DUI Lawyer

Driving under the influence or DUI is a crime that involves individuals operating motor vehicles while under the influence of alcohol, prescription medication, or illegal drugs. DUI lawyers are highly trained legal professionals that specialize in DUI laws and providing representation to a variety of clients.

What does a DUI lawyer do?

DUI lawyers represent clients that have been accused of DUI offenses. They guide their clients through the laws and legal actions and try to achieve the best possible outcome. They obtain the necessary information and documentation to build a solid case. They often help clients save their driver’s licenses, challenge breath, chemical, and blood tests, and help get charges reduced or dismissed. They provide legal advice regarding legal rights, potential consequences, and available options such as pleas and bargains. They also help their clients understand the many different fines and penalties associated with DUI cases.

What kind of training does a DUI lawyer need?

DUI lawyers must have at least a bachelor degree and law degree. All law schools approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) require candidates to receive a satisfactory score on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) to become accepted. Law school provides intensive classroom instruction and offers many opportunities for potential lawyers to gain practical experience. Many law schools require law students to complete internships before graduation. Many aspiring DUI lawyers complete internships or clerkships with law firms that specialize in DUI cases to gain practical experience and establish valuable contacts. All states require DUI lawyers to pass the state written bar examination to become licensed to practice law. DUI lawyers must complete regular continuing education to maintain their licenses, keep their skills up to date, and stay current with advancements and changes in the laws related to DUI cases.

What are the prospects for a career as a DUI lawyer?

Employment of all lawyers, including DUI lawyers is expected to grow about as fast as average for all professions, increasing 13% from 2008 to 2018 (1). The growing population and increase in DUI incidents will drive job growth for DUI lawyers.

Job prospects are expected to be good with strong competition. DUI lawyers with good academic records and extensive experience will have the best job opportunities.

How much do DUI lawyers make?

As of January 2010, the average annual salary for DUI lawyers is $56,000; average annual DUI lawyer salaries vary greatly on location, employer, education, experience, and benefits (2).

A career as a DUI lawyer is a great choice for people with a strong interest in providing legal representation to individuals involved in DUI offenses. DUI lawyers must have a solid understanding of DUI laws and drunk driving consequences. Patience, self-confidence, analytical thinking, detail orientation, and good problem solving skills are necessary characteristics. DUI lawyers must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with a variety of clients and other legal professionals.

Now what? The next step is easy!

Take the first step today and request free information from our selected top online law and criminal justice schools,or simply use the form below to find the program that is right for you!

(1) SOURCE: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition.
(2) SOURCE: SimplyHired.com, Simply Salary