The legal system is already complicated, and this is why when you’re being accused of driving under the influence, you need a lawyer who can defend you with everything that he has because this conviction can have serious consequences.
Some people have experienced not only having their licenses suspended but also getting jail time. It can impact your personal life and your future, so you need to make sure that you get the best outcome for your case as much as possible. Fortunately, with the right legal guidance, you can challenge the charge, and you’ll better understand your rights.
If you or someone you know is charged with driving under the influence, you need to spot weaknesses in the case and let someone who knows the law examine the prosecution’s facts. The best DUI Lawyer is going to present a piece of evidence that will contradict the testimonies, and they’ll determine inaccuracies with the breathalyzer test.
Understanding DUI Charges and Their Consequences
Each state has varying penalties when it comes to drunk driving convictions. Many of them will often charge the first offense as a misdemeanor, but it will still depend on the apprehending officer. Know that they’re charging drunk driving seriously, and multiple convictions might result in severe penalties.
You might need to undergo mandatory treatment and some time for community service for a first offense and pay the fines. Other jurisdictions may also result in jail time, especially if there’s an accident involved. Fines can also be expensive, and they can range from $500 to $2,000 depending on where you live. There might also be an installation of an ignition interlock device that you’re going to pay for, and you’ll be required to blow into a unit, so they’ll read your current blood alcohol content. If it’s too high, you won’t be able to start your car, so this is going to be an inconvenience.
Know that there’s also an instance where your license will be revoked and suspended by the Department of Motor Vehicles. Generally, it may take around 90 days, and you’re required to install an IID that you can read info on this site here. You’ll also be required to enroll in an education program that will treat severe alcohol abuse if needed.
Building a Strong Defense Against the Prosecution
Know that facing these allegations is going to be stressful, the first thing that a prosecutor will ask is the driving pattern of the defendant. When there are movements involving straying outside the lines, it can indicate that the driver is intoxicated.
However, many drivers may engage in the same erratic movements even if they’re sober. A good defense is that you also emphasize to the officer that you’re using your signal lights when changing lanes and you’re obeying traffic rules.
Also, the police may also look for red eyes with a flushed face, and some people may have a cold to explain them. When the sobriety tests are conducted, there are various ways to make the results different.
Some may become anxious when they’re subjected to these tests, and this is why they may demonstrate nervousness. It’s difficult for them to relax, and this is why their current state of mind is reflecting their balance and coordination. There are a lot of opportunities to defend yourself, and the right lawyer will generally look for them so your sentence will be lighter.
Why Should You Hire a Lawyer?
Going to a court alone is risky since the prosecutors are already skilled in securing a conviction. Instead, you might want to hire someone who will help you level the playing field so you can receive a fair trial.
They will argue on your behalf, question the possibly skewed results of the breathalyzer, and craft a perfect defense for you. Know that people who have diabetes or those who are on low-carb diets may inflate their current blood alcohol content that you can see post in this webpage: https://www.utoledo.edu/studentaffairs/counseling/selfhelp/substanceuse/bac.html, so you might want to request the calibration records during the trial.
With their ability to complete the required paperwork and represent you in court, these attorneys are able to negotiate plea deals on your behalf. They can provide you with invaluable guidance and anticipate the potential roadblocks that you may face in your case. Their strategies are also developed according to your situation, and they will improve your chances of avoiding jail time.
You can count on them to act as your court advocate, and they will argue on your behalf. They will leverage any weakness that they can find in the case of the prosecution, and they will work with you to achieve the best possible resolution.
Steps to Take After a DUI Arrest
When you’re arrested for drunk driving, you need to take immediate steps to avoid worsening your situation. Be calm to avoid further incriminating yourself and avoid making any statements that will make you look bad. Instead, you can remain silent and tell the officers that you’re going to call legal representation that’s part of your right. However, you also need to be cooperative with them to avoid further trouble. Just avoid volunteering any piece of information to them beyond what’s legally required of you.
There’s also the need to document everything so your lawyer can check them afterward. Film the interaction with the law enforcement and include important details like the location and the time of the charge. If possible, get the number of any witnesses that you may find in the area so they can provide a testimony on your behalf.
Also, be immediate in calling the lawyer because you need to meet time-sensitive deadlines. You also need to request a hearing that will contest your license revocation, so act quickly, while you have the time. The sooner you call the lawyer, the more options you’ll have in protecting yourself. Be strategic with your actions and speed dial the right attorney on your phone so you can minimize the impact of DUI in the future.
