Should I Hire a DUI Attorney?

Getting a DUI can undoubtedly be a stressful event, especially for someone unfamiliar with the law, legal process, and court system. Here are some reasons why hiring a DUI attorney may make sense:

They know the legal process

A DUI attorney can help navigate and guide you through the legal process so that there are no surprises. They will also be able to guide and represent you in DMV proceedings related to your driving privileges. For many people, it can bring peace of mind simply knowing that they have a knowledgeable and experienced attorney in their corner to guide them through every step.   

They know the law

DUI attorneys know the law and can gauge the strength of the prosecution’s case against you by looking, for example, at whether proper protocols were followed when you were pulled over. Did the police officer have “reasonable suspicion” that you broke the law before stopping you? Did the police officer have “probable cause” for the arrest? Did the police officer read you your Miranda rights before questioning you? If proper protocols weren’t followed then a DUI attorney can request a suppression hearing to throw out improperly obtained evidence.

They know that BAC chemical tests are not always reliable

DUI attorneys know the different types of BAC chemical tests; they know the limitations in the tests, the potential for errors in administering them, and the potential of inaccuracy in the results of each. If the test was improperly administered, or if the results are inaccurate, or if it doesn’t properly illuminate the entire story, then the DUI attorney can potentially use this to weaken the prosecution’s case.

They strategize to obtain best possible outcome for you

A DUI attorney will determine the best strategy in order to obtain the best possible outcome for you. Your attorney will look at all of the evidence and ways to weaken the prosecution’s case. The best outcome is to get your case dismissed entirely, but if it can’t get dismissed, if the prosecution has a weak case, your attorney can negotiate a plea deal where you can plead guilty to a lesser charge in return for lighter penalties. If it’s not possible to reduce the charges, a DUI attorney can potentially help you get a lighter sentence.

Consequences of a DUI conviction

Consequences of a DUI conviction include: suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, expensive fines, potential jail time, higher insurance rates, less employment prospects, and travel restrictions to certain countries.