Selecting a DUI Attorney

Our Ventura DUI Defense Attorney Has the Experience You Need

When looking for the right DUI attorney to represent you in your case, you should ask the following questions:

Is the law firm's practice exclusively dedicated to DUI law?

Just as you would not want a foot doctor to perform your heart surgery, you would not want a personal injury lawyer to handle your defense case. An attorney who practices exclusively in the area of DUI law should be considered one of the most important factors in choosing which firm you hire. The Law Offices of Robert F. Sommers is exclusively committed to providing experienced representation in every aspect of DUI law.

Is there familiarity between the lawyer and the various judges, DAs, and courtrooms in the area?

A comprehensive knowledge of the prosecutors, judges, and court can be effectively used to strategize a favorable plan tailored to your needs. In some cases, it may be more preferable to handle a case in one certain court instead of another. Attorney Robert F. Sommers will always make sure your case is being handled in the most desirable manner, even if it means an extra appearance on his part. It is our goal to obtain the best possible outcome based on the client's individual circumstances.

Does the attorney practice in the area on a daily basis?

Mr. Sommers has been working in the Ventura County, Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara County criminal arraignment and trial courts on a daily basis since 1997.

Does the attorney have knowledge from both sides of the court?

Understanding every case from the prosecutor's perspective is extremely valuable when a strategic defense is being built. Attorney Robert F. Sommers worked as a Ventura County Deputy District Attorney and continues to maintain well-respected, professional relationships with judges and district attorneys in Ventura County. During his time at the Ventura County District Attorney's office, Mr. Sommers trained other Deputy District Attorneys in the prosecution of DUIs.

How long has the attorney been in private practice?

Robert F. Sommers has maintained a thriving private practice focused on defending individuals arrested for DUI since 1997. He has built a successful track record of frequently dismissed and reduced charges.

Has the attorney ever taken a DUI case to trial?

Attorney Robert F. Sommers has handled DUI trial cases both as a former Deputy District Attorney and as a private DUI defense attorney. This experience is extremely rare and valuable. While DUI cases don’t always make it to the trial stage, you should choose a DUI defense attorney who is familiar with the process in the area and who is not intimidated by trial if it occurs.

Will your case be handled directly by the attorney, or will an associate or other attorney be making appearances?

It is not uncommon for attorneys to sub out their work to a local firm. At The Law Offices of Robert F. Sommers, you can be sure that you are being represented by attorney Robert F. Sommers unless you are informed otherwise. In other words, you will get what you pay for every time.

Will you be receiving updates from a paralegal or speaking directly with the attorney you retained?

One complaint we hear from many people who have used other attorneys in the past is the lack of communication the attorney provided. We believe that it is important for you to maintain regular correspondence directly with the attorney who represents you. Upon hiring The Law Offices of Robert F. Sommers, your case is treated as a top priority and you will be well-informed of any information relative to your case at all times.

Does the attorney consult with experts regarding the case?

Upon complete examination of your case it is often advantageous to check with various resources regarding the evidence. This could include forensic toxicologists, medical professionals, and accident reconstructionists. These individuals have the in-depth and unique knowledge to discuss factors involving any field sobriety tests, breathalyzers, and more. The Law Offices of Robert F. Sommers only consults with the most qualified experts.

What does the fee structure include?

It is important to know what you are paying for when hiring a lawyer. At The Law Offices of Robert F. Sommers, we charge a flat fee which includes handling your case both with the DMV and the courts up to trial. In the rare event that your case would go to trial, a trial fee would be quoted. If you are told that the fee includes the cost of trial, you should look into this.

The District Attorney's office rarely wastes their resources on a case that they will likely lose in trial and for this reason, it is unusual for a highly qualified attorney to take a DUI case to trial. At The Law Offices of Robert F. Sommers, a competitive flat fee is charged based on our years of practicing exclusively DUI defense and our dedication to providing top-quality legal services.

Does the attorney have any negative complaints filed against him / her with the State Bar of California?

When hiring an attorney, you should also consider the reputation of the attorney within the courts and legal community. We strongly advise our clients to check with the California State Bar and be sure you are hiring a reputable attorney with no complaints on their record.

Mr. Sommers has a remarkable reputation within the courts in Ventura County, Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara County, and with the DMV. He handles all of his cases with an extremely professional and respectful manner while providing his clients the top-quality DUI defense they deserve. Check now by clicking here: State Bar of California.