Fighting A DUI With The Right Lawyer

When dealing with driving violations, one of the worst that you can have on your record is a driving under the influence penalty. With that said, these penalties are incredibly common throughout the entire country, in that some 20 percent of drivers will get a DUI conviction one day. However, a lot of factors come into play with DUI cases, so you should never just submit to the fact that you will be convicted if you get pulled over and charged. If you are ever arrested and charged with a DUI, there are some guidelines and tips that you will need to follow in order to give you the help that will prevent you from having this mark on your driving and criminal record. 

#1: Know Whether You Can Plead To A Lesser Charge

There is a difference between protecting your innocence in trial and throwing yourself on the mercy of the courts for leniency. If the evidence is not looking good in your favor, you might want to cut your losses and take a plea bargain. This saves time and money if you think that you will be found guilty anyway. However, not every state allows for plea bargains in DUI cases. Those that do allow plea bargains generally downgrade the charge to a wet reckless, which means that you will receive a less severe reckless driving penalty, while acknowledging that alcohol was involved.

With a wet reckless, you will typically get a less severe punishment and will not deal with the same repercussions that happen with a DUI conviction.

#2: Understand How Important It Is To Hire A Lawyer And Contest The Charge

Don't ever think that you can get away with simply going to court with no representation and hoping for the best results. You'll need to hire a credible, licensed and bar-certified attorney who specializes in DUI charges. The converse result is that you'll go to court unprepared and will leave yourself open to some of the following setbacks:

  • Jail time, even on the first offense, depending on your state
  • Expensive fines and court costs
  • The loss of your license
  • Mandatory drug and alcohol counseling
  • A poor stigma and reputation

#3: If Convicted, Still Work With Your Attorney

All is not lost if you get convicted of the DUI penalty. You will still need to work with your attorney to see if you can get a conditional use license to get to and from work, appeal the sentencing to have no or less jail time, reduce the fines issued and more. Your lawyer will work hard for you to make this happen, so be sure that you remain in communication with them, regardless of the outcome. 

Consider these guidelines when you are charged with such a penalty, so that you're able to move past the DUI charge and get your life back in order. A credible traffic law and DUI attorney can help. Contact a firm like Hogan-Kimrey LLP Attorneys At Law for more information.

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