You Have Finished Your Representation of a Client in a DUI Case, Now What?
One of the best practices to do after completion of legal services in a DUI case is to properly close the file. Lets say that worked really hard and got your client a great deal. They decided to take that plea deal, and they completed all the active terms of the sentence including the alcohol and drug assessment, recommended treatment program, community service, and they paid the fine. So what should the attorney do next?
File a notice of withdrawal with the Court and Prosecutor: At the conclusion of the case it is a good idea to file a notice of withdrawal to let both the Court and the Prosecutors office the attorney has completed the legal services agreed to at the beginning of the representation. Additionally it also helps alleviate any future issues if the client violates the terms of their sentence and they have to appear in court. If the Attorney has already withdrawn then Court is less likely to contact the attorney about the violation, and just set the hearing through the defendant alleviating any notice issues.
Send client a closing letter: Another item to check off at the conclusion of a DUI case is to send the client a closing letter. Usually it is best to include notification that the attorney has withdrawn from the case. But it is also a good practice to include an outline of what happened with the case, what the outcome was, and what if any active terms of the sentence remain. For example community service hours, or mandatory license suspension.
Closing client file, and place in storage: After the attorney has withdrawn from the case, and notified the client they have withdrawn and provided an outline of the outcome of the case. The final step is to close out the file. This includes adding up all the time the attorney spent on the case. Documenting the final resolution of the case, including what happened, and what sentence the Judge imposed. Make sure all discovery is included in the file, including but not limited to the police report, breath tests results, and witness interview notes. After this is completed file these documents away in storage and keep for whatever time period your state bar association requires, then destory.
Once the legal services are completed it is good practice to follow these three steps for every DUI case the firm represents. It is just a way to have uniform steps in this process, and is a good way to stay organized in case of an audit or future issues with the client in question.
If you have been arrested for a DUI don't wait to contact a Seattle DUI Lawyer. Hiring a Seattle DUI Lawyer will not only ensure your constitutional rights are protected, but will put your mind at ease during this difficult time.
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