Vernon A. Smith

Vern was great. I had one prior DUI (had a PD at the time) and I couldn't afford another. He never pressured me to take a deal and he took the time to explain the pros and cons of each offer. After months of negotiations, the DUI charge was reduced. I highly recommend Vern Smith. He was patient, compassionate and understanding AND always answered my questions promptly!

Vern represented me on a DUI case which was dismissed as a result of his thorough and detailed handling. I would recommend Vern, without hesitation, to anyone in a similar situation.

He took great pains to prepare me and my case. Immediately, he had me write down what happened, in detail. This was vital for both of us.

Then he explained the procedures we'd go through, and the possible and likely outcomes. He had me proactively take the drug assessment and attend the one-day counselling and training, obtain a copy of my driving record, and prepare to get the driving interlock in place for the administrative suspension.

Vern warned me that, despite a relatively low BAC (.099), that the state was pursuing DUI convictions aggressively. Although a plea was likely, it was by no means guaranteed. In the event, the prosecutor did not offer a plea and Vern presented motions for dismissal.

The motions process was (to me) where Vern really shone. He prepared me ethically and well. At no time did he suggest I share anything but the facts, but he did tell me to be clear and straightforward. He had minutely examined the arrest report and -- during the motions hearing -- very painstakingly questioned me and the arresting officer. He raised a number of objections to the state's case (some detailed items on the stop, the Field Sobriety test and the BAC test process; some more obscure points regarding the law) and in the end, the judge upheld these objections and dismissed the case.

At all times, Vern kept me informed. If anything, he kept my expectations low and the result was both a surprise and a relief. I cannot recommend him more highly.