Have you faced charges related to driving under the influence (DUI)? A DUI offense is mainly classified as a criminal offense rather than a mere traffic violation.
According to the CDC, drunk driving is directly responsible for the deaths of around 29 persons every day in the US.
If the court finds someone guilty, the repercussions might significantly impact their life. In order to mitigate the potential consequences associated with a DUI sentence, it is crucial to look for a DUI defense attorney in your area promptly. Here is why you should hire a DUI attorney.
Identify Gaps in the Prosecution’s Case
Having a DUI attorney on your side is beneficial as they will carefully examine the prosecution’s case and look for weaknesses and inconsistencies. The standard of proof in DUI cases is one beyond reasonable doubt. Thus, the defense attorney aims to create doubts in the prosecution case. They can:
- Claim there was no probable cause that led to your arrest
- The Breathalyzer test results were incorrect
- Introduce evidence contradicting the prosecution’s case
The court will dismiss the case if it develops doubt in the prosecution case. The attorney can also help you reduce your sentence.
DUI Attorneys Can Reduce Your Sentence
DUI offenses are punishable, and the punishment depends on the number of times you have committed the offense. This is how the government punishes people caught with DUI offenses:
First-time DUI offenders: Offenders will undergo an alcohol program, fine, and informal probation of three years. The program duration will depend on the alcohol percentage in your blood.
- Three months if it is under 0.15%
- Six months if it is less than 0.20%
- Nine months if it is over 0.20%
Second DUI offenders: You can serve a jail term of 45-75 days. If the offense is severe, you can receive additional punishment and penalties.
Third-time DUI offenders: The minimum jail time is 120 days – the jail time increases according to the crime’s severity. You could even serve one year of imprisonment.
Fourth-time DUI offenders: This is a felony, and you could serve a jail term of six months – two years.
With a DUI attorney, they can defend you and possibly reduce your sentence as well as the punishment.
Help You Get Your License Back
The DMV might revoke your driving privileges after an arrest for driving under the influence. You have seven days from the date of suspension to obtain a hearing with the DMV. A competent DUI attorney will ensure this is successful without delay.
At the DMV hearing, your professional DUI attorney can argue on your behalf and present evidence that will help keep your license intact. Factors relevant to the case may include evidence disputing the accuracy of any Breathalyzer testing, among others.
Sometimes, your attorney can also work out a deal with the DMV and court to lessen or possibly prevent a suspension. Depending on the severity of the offense, this could determine whether or not you keep your license.
Protect Your Reputation
A conviction for driving under the influence might result in a permanent mark on your record. You may have a greater chance of protecting your reputation and freedom if you retain the services of DUI attorneys. Your future is too important to risk. Hire an attorney who will use the resources available to safeguard your reputation.
You can have your DUI charges dropped with the help of a competent attorney. They may be able to claim:
- Inadequate evidence
- Violation of your rights by the police officer who arrested you
Your attorney may also be able to assist you in having the case against you sealed from public view if the case dismissal is not possible. This ensures that no one will be able to access it after removal, including prospective employers or malicious people looking for dirt.
Conclusion
Remember that you only have ten days before your driving license is automatically canceled. Engaging the services of an experienced DUI attorney will greatly benefit you. The attorney knows the steps and court procedure to follow, and eventually, they will reduce the probation, fines, and mandatory DUI school.
