When You Need Legal Help For A DUI/DWI

You've been charged with driving under the influence. It's a serious matter that can have devastating consequences. It can involve criminal court proceedings, administrative hearings and ultimately, sentencing. Most people are unprepared for such an ordeal. They never expect to be caught drinking and driving. When it happens to you, it's critical that you have the legal help you need on your side. Below, you'll discover why it's important to retain the services of a lawyer when you're charged with a DUI/DWI.

Preparing Your DUI/DWI Case

First, you're legally vulnerable without a lawyer to represent you. If you don't hire a lawyer, you run the risk of being convicted and sentenced with severe penalties that you may not deserve. A lawyer can work closely with you to help prepare your case. They can explore whether pursuing a plea agreement is worthwhile. In the event that someone else was injured while you were driving, they can defend your rights against a prosecuting attorney.

If your case goes through a criminal trial, your attorney can present both expert and character witnesses. Their testimony can help your cause. A lawyer who has experience with DUI/DWI cases can bring resources to your trial. Without the lawyer's help, you would have no access to many of these resources.

Attending Administrative Hearings

Once you've been arrested and charged with a DUI/DWI, you'll need to attend administrative hearings. During these hearings, a judge will determine whether to revoke your driving privilege. He'll also consider any justification for levying other penalties. You should have your lawyer present. His experience with similar cases will prove invaluable for his speaking on your behalf and appealing the judge's decision, if necessary.

Minimizing Your Sentence

If you're convicted of a DUI/DWI, you and your attorney will need to shift your focus to sentencing. Having a lawyer's help during sentencing is a necessity. Without experienced legal representation, you're vulnerable to whatever sentencing is mandated by the judge. A lawyer can appeal to the judge by offering circumstances that can help minimize the penalties. For example, if you're a single father of 2 young children, a judge may be willing to assign a less-severe sentence. Or, if you provide 24-hour care for your disabled parents, your lawyer can present that information on your behalf. Presenting these circumstances can make the difference between probation and spending time in jail.

The Benefits Of Having Legal Help

Hiring a lawyer should be your first step once you're arrested and charged with a DUI/DWI. They can work with you throughout every step of the legal process. A lawyer who specializes in DUI/DWI cases can work diligently to pursue a plea agreement. If a plea agreement isn't possible, your attorney can present your case during your criminal trial. He can use his valuable resources to help you avoid a conviction. If a conviction follows, your lawyer can help minimize sentencing by speaking with the judge on your behalf.

If you've been charged with a DUI/DWI, get a lawyer who specializes in those types of cases. It may be one of the best investments you can make for your future.

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