While driving under the influence is never a good idea, it still happens every single day. Most people facing DUI charges are uncertain of what to do next. Many are first-time offenders and have no idea what hiring an attorney could do for their case. While it is a huge mistake to drive while inebriated, it should not ruin your life when you should get the chance to learn from the instance and never do it again. Some believe that they can represent themselves in court and save money by avoiding attorney fees. Others may be concerned about the cost of hiring an attorney and think it would be better to just plead guilty and get the charges over with.
The truth is, that hiring an attorney can have a massive impact on your DUI case – often making the difference between a conviction and getting your charges dismissed. Here’s a look at some of the ways an attorney can help you fight DUI charges:
1. An Attorney Can Help You Challenge the Arrest
If you’ve been arrested for DUI, it’s important to understand that this is just the first step in the process. You have not been convicted of anything yet and there are still a number of ways to challenge the arrest and ultimately get the charges against you dropped.
An experienced DUI defense attorney will know how to investigate the circumstances of your arrest and look for any possible defenses. For example, if the police did not have probable cause to pull you over in the first place, your attorney may be able to get the charges against you dismissed.
2. An Attorney Can Help You Negotiate With the Prosecutor
If you choose to represent yourself in court, the prosecutor will know that you are not familiar with the legal system and may take advantage of this by offering a plea bargain that is not in your best interest. However, if you have an attorney representing you, the prosecutor will be more likely to take your case seriously and may be more willing to negotiate a favorable plea deal.
3. An Attorney Can Help You Avoid a License Suspension
If you are convicted of DUI, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended. However, if you hire an attorney and they are able to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed, your license will not be suspended.
4. An Attorney Can Help You Avoid Jail Time
If you are convicted of DUI, you may be facing up to six months in jail. However, if you hire an experienced DUI attorney, they may be able to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed and help you avoid any time behind bars.
5. An Attorney Can Help You Get Your Charges Expunged
If you are convicted of DUI, the charge will remain on your criminal record forever. However, if you hire an attorney and they are able to get the charges against you dismissed, the charge will be expunged from your record.
While hiring an attorney may seem like an expensive proposition, the truth is that it can save you a lot of money in the long run. An experienced DUI attorney will know how to challenge the charges against you and may be able to get your charges reduced or dismissed. In some cases, an attorney may even be able to get your driver’s license reinstated.
If you have been charged with DUI, don’t try to represent yourself in court. Hiring an experienced DUI attorney is the best way to ensure that you have the best possible chance of getting your charges reduced or dismissed.