Anyone charged with a DUI or Driving Under the Influence needs to take this charge very seriously.

If convicted, you could face not only suspension of your license but serious prison time as well, and this is especially true if this isn't your first offense.

So how do you go about finding good DUI defense attorneys to represent you in court?

You could of course just start looking through the yellow pages or do a local search online, but there's more to choosing DUI defense attorneys than just being impressed with their fancy ads.

For one thing, find out how long they've actually been handling DUI cases. DUI defense attorneys should specialize in this type of representation; it's not like filing a person's will or handling their estate or any other such legal cases.

There are specific laws about this type of charge that DUI defense attorneys should be familiar with, and they should know what legal strategies to use in your defense.

They may ask for a lighter sentence based on your personal circumstances or may know how to negotiate with the court for a reduction in charges or punishment, such as just a restricted license rather than suspended, and so on.

Only a good attorney with experience in this type of case is going to know these things. Remember that! No yellow pages shopping here, you need to choose your attorney by his experience and knowledge, not his place in the phone book.

You're also going to need to know how DUI defense attorneys will charge you. Most require at least some of their legal fees up front. If you don't have cash, they may or may not accept charge cards.

Some may require you to take out a loan such as against your house to pay their fees, if you have no other money available to you.

Whatever the case, be prepared for some hefty fees. But in the end, the best DUI defense attorneys will be worth it.