Alright, you think. This can’t be that bad. Maybe I can plead to something lesser and pay a fine? Perhaps it’s because it was my first offense? Maybe I could just go to some classes or let them know I have a license but won’t drive again for a while… If this is what you’re thinking, you need the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney specializing in DUI cases as soon as possible. Even seemingly harmless DUIs can have lasting effects on your life. You see, even if it’s your first time getting caught driving under the influence, you must avoid getting another DUI conviction at all costs. This third offense will result in jail time and huge fines with no option for community service or alternative sentencing. So, before you make any decisions about how to handle your case, take these tips from our team of leading defense attorneys into consideration:
Hiring a criminal defense attorney is your best option
The field of law is all about strategy, and with DUI cases, nothing is more important than your defense strategy. From the moment you are arrested to the day your case is closed, you and your defense team will work together to produce the results you need. This means that from the very beginning, your attorney will gather all the evidence needed to build a strategy for your case. This may include gathering witness statements and police reports, taking pictures of the scene, and even requesting and reviewing your blood tests to make sure they aren’t tampered with or faulty. Your team will also inform you of your rights and let you know exactly what you need to do as the case moves forward. Hiring a criminal defense attorney is your best option because they know the laws and will be able to come up with the best strategy using the evidence you may not have even known existed.
A DUI conviction can lead to jail time, huge fines, and more
With every DUI conviction, your insurance is likely to skyrocket. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that thousands of people were killed in accidents involving drunk drivers a year. This shows no signs of decreasing, and you may be the next person to be hurt. If you don’t want to be one of these statistics, you need to take your charges seriously. Getting a DUI does not only mean paying fines and doing community service for a few months. It also means you will be stuck with a criminal record that can affect you for years to come. In some states, you may lose your driving privileges for years, or even the rest of your life. Your car insurance rates could potentially skyrocket to the point where you can’t afford to drive anymore. And the state may even place a criminal record on your record, which could affect your job, your ability to get a loan, and anything else that requires a background check.
Ignition Interlock courses are highly recommended
If you’re looking for a way to make your charges a little less serious, or to take the edge off the fines, ignition interlock courses are probably a good option for you. Ignition interlock courses are courses that put you in a car with a device that monitors your blood alcohol content and prevents you from operating the vehicle if you are over the limit. This means you can’t even drive to work or school while taking this course. You will be required to drive to your court dates and back home again, but that’s it. It’s a lot like house arrest, but instead of being in your own home, you’re in a car. Ignition interlock courses are highly recommended because they’re a lot less serious than a traditional DUI case.
You may need an expert witness during your trial
You may need an expert witness during your trial, even if you are pleading not guilty. Your attorney may request an expert witness to testify on your behalf if your blood test results were inaccurate or faulty. If your blood alcohol content was not tested correctly, your attorney may hire an expert witness to testify on your behalf and explain what went wrong with the results. The court may also decide to hire its own expert witness to testify that the test results were accurate. Your attorney will be able to advise you on this matter and let you know what to expect and how to prepare for it. Finally, if you’re charged with a DUI, you’re going to need a good defense attorney. There are a lot of different things that can go wrong with a DUI case and having an attorney on your side can help you avoid making mistakes and give you a better chance of winning your case.