You have just been arrested for drunk driving in Maine and charged with an Operating Under the Influence (OUI).  You are taken to the nearest police station and given an alcohol breath test.  You are taken into custody, fingerprinted, and processed at the county jail.  Immediately upon your release, you should contact a criminal defense attorney.

Before your first meeting or consultation with your OUI defense attorney, you should compile a list of questions to ask.  Your attorney should be able to help you determine a defense strategy for your case.

Some possible questions include (but are not limited to):

• Where is your office located?
• What are the charges against me and how serious are they?
• How long have you been practicing law?
• How much experience do you have in handling OUI offense?
• What potential defenses do you see working for my case?
• What is the goal for the outcome of my case?
• What are the strong/ weaker points of my case?
• What are the best and worst scenarios for my case?
• Should I take my OUI case to a trial?
• Are there any alternative sentencing programs available in my case instead of jail time?
• What rights do I have while under the supervision of the criminal justice system?
• Will you be handling my case personally?
• What is your rate or retainer fee?

You should never feel nervous or uncomfortable around your attorney.  Your lawyer should help to make you aware of your circumstances and the risks you will be facing.  By asking questions, you can learn more about the charges you are facing and how the criminal defense attorney can help.