Driving under influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a criminal offense that has considerable consequences on your life and liberty. When proven guilty, you can face hefty fines and some serious jail time. By the time you run free, a DUI record can cause an employer to think twice before hiring you.
Also, there’s the possibility of having your license revoked, which means that you might never get behind the wheel again. If you do get it back, it could impose severe restrictions on your driving.
In truth, DUI law is complicated and ever-changing to the point that you need to have a legal expert by your side long before the trial starts. If you don’t know what to do when you’re charged with DUI or DWI, you may end up in big legal trouble. This is where a DUI lawyer comes to the rescue.
If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence, here’s how a lawyer may help with your case:
1. Evaluate The Facts Of Your Case
Dealing with a DUI charge can be very frustrating. Unless you’re a legal professional, you may have no idea what this crime is all about and how it can affect your normal life. This is one of the reasons why you should work with a DUI lawyer to help you with your case. Luckily, the legal professionals at alvineweidenaar.com and other law firms are experienced in handling different criminal cases, including protecting your rights from a DUI case.
A skilled DUI lawyer plays a pivotal role in your defense by delving into the intricate details of your case. One of their key responsibilities is to meticulously evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your case, a process that often begins with a thorough examination of the written police report and any other relevant documents. By scrutinizing these materials, they can identify potential errors, inconsistencies, or procedural missteps that could work in your favor. Their legal expertise enables them to see nuances and legal precedents that the average person might overlook.
Furthermore, a seasoned DUI lawyer takes a comprehensive approach by considering the broader context of your situation. They examine relevant events leading up to and during the incident, taking into account factors such as traffic conditions, weather, and any extenuating circumstances. This holistic assessment allows them to formulate a well-informed legal opinion about your case, enabling them to devise a strategic defense tailored to your unique circumstances.
Additionally, your DUI lawyer serves as a valuable resource and guide throughout the legal process. They are there to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide you with a clear overview of DUI court proceedings. This guidance is instrumental in helping you prepare for the trial. Armed with this knowledge, you will have a much better idea of what to expect, how to navigate the legal system, and what steps to take to effectively fight the DUI charge. By partnering with a DUI lawyer, you not only increase your chances of a favorable outcome but also gain the confidence and understanding needed to actively participate in your own defense.
2. Help Defend You Against The Charges Of The Prosecution
One of the most important things a DUI lawyer can do is to help defend yourself against the charges of the prosecution. With an experienced legal professional by your side, you can prevent the worst from happening such as facing the consequences of the conviction. These can include hefty penalties, jail time, suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, and many more.
Thus, if you want to increase your chances of getting your DUI charges dismissed, you need a reputable lawyer to help you establish the following errors and defend you against the case:
- Improper traffic stop by the police – If you’re obeying the traffic rules and regulations or don’t have any mechanical malfunction with your vehicle, your lawyer can raise the defense that the police officer had no probable cause to pull you over and any evidence collected after it will be rendered inadmissible.
- Error in the arrest procedure – If you’re placed under arrest due to a DUI charge, the arresting officer should inform you of your rights, which include the right to remain silent, the right to have a competent and independent legal counsel, and many more. But in case these warnings aren’t issued, any evidence gained thereafter can no longer be used against you.
- Inaccurate breathalyzer results – Breathalyzer can help measure the blood alcohol content (BAC) inside your body at the time of your DUI arrest. Depending on your local DUI laws, your actual BAC level may be beyond the normal level, making the results an evidence against you. Fortunately, with the help of a lawyer, they can identify breathalyzer issues that make your breath test results inaccurate. These problems can include poor calibration, electronic interference, certain health conditions, and many more.
- Inaccurate field sobriety test – This test is used by the police officers to determine if you’re intoxicated with alcohol or other dangerous drugs. However, this test can be inaccurate due to a variety of reasons.
For example, if you have a disability, you’re overweight, or you’re elderly, the field sobriety test administered to you are more likely to be inaccurate. In such a case, your DUI lawyer can attack the effectiveness of this test due to some cues of impairment such as improper administration, lack of bad driving reports on your end, and the ineligibility of the police officer to administer the test.
3. Represent You In Court
When a case has been filed against you in court, then you need a DUI lawyer to provide you with legal representation. Their assistance is beneficial, especially when entering into plea bargains. Just like other criminal cases, legal professionals who specialize in DUI laws are familiar with how the justice system works and with how the presiding judge decides on cases similar to yours.
For instance, they can use their knowledge and skills to reduce fines to a minimum, negotiate for reduced sentences, or compromise such as community service or rehabilitation. In addition, they also know how to prepare the paperwork and other processes that are necessary for fighting for your freedom, allowing you to live your normal life back.
4. Provide You With Peace Of Mind
Facing a DUI charge can cause you emotional distress and stress. With all the possible legal consequences in place in case of a conviction, you may end up worrying about what will happen to you and your family.
Luckily, having a lawyer by your side can help you have peace of mind. You’ll feel more comfortable and confident knowing that your case is being taken care of by a legal professional who knows the criminal justice system inside and out.
The Takeaway
Driving under influence is a serious criminal offense with harsh penalties and hefty fines. While some may be tempted to go to court on their own and accept standard plea offers as an admission of wrongdoing, it’s still wise to consult with a lawyer before you spend a day in court. This is because they can provide you with better plea bargains, reduced jail terms, and even advocate for community service or other treatment programs instead.
Consider hiring Sexner & Associates, a highly respected law firm, to improve your chances of getting a DUI charge dismissed. They can help you in your DUI case either through consultation, court representation, or by raising all the possible defenses to refute the prosecution’s claim. They’re adept at handling the unique circumstances of your case and are guaranteed to dedicate their time and effort in building a strong defense to ensure dismissal or reduced cases and fines.
