Driving under the influence has been a constant problem in the United States. Every day, about 37 people die in drunk-driving car crashes, which equals one alcohol-impaired driving fatality every 39 minutes.
There are many consequences if you get charged with DUI. You can lose your license, pay big fines, and even spend time in jail.
Penalties for DUI charges differ in each state. An example of this is in California. Under CA DUI laws, a first DUI can bring up to six months in jail, fines, a license suspension, and DUI school. Heavier punishment awaits those with a fourth offense that causes injury or death. It will be considered a felony, with longer prison time and much heavier consequences.
Here is where a DUI lawyer comes in. With their experience with the law and the court system, you might have a chance to reduce the penalties you will face.
Understanding the Role of a DUI Lawyer
Whenever a person in any given circumstance faces a DUI charge, understanding the role of a DUI lawyer becomes essential. They act as your champion through the legal quagmire and are vital in protecting your rights.
A DUI lawyer is there to help you with their knowledge of DUI law, so you don’t have to face the situation alone. The attorney will assess your situation and consider possible angles from which to lessen the penalties or maybe even have more favorable outcomes, such as dismissal.
Having a lawyer brings confidence and morale, so you don’t feel like just another file number. Their skills can hugely differentiate the outcomes; you will be able to bond with them through different experiences, feeling safer in an environment where you are very vulnerable, and that, in turn, allows you to focus on the present and the future.
Analyzing the Evidence Against You
It is common knowledge that driving while intoxicated is illegal and can be deadly. And according to DUI accident lawyer Evan Ostfeld, operating a vehicle after drinking alcohol or using drugs also endangers the lives of everyone involved, including oneself.
The most fundamental step to help your DUI case is to examine the evidence put forth to convict you. Your DUI lawyer will analyze every detail, from police reports to breathalyzer results. They will look at any inconsistencies or errors that could weaken the prosecution’s case.
The officer may not have complied with the right procedures, or the apparatus seems faulty. Upon spotting such errors, the defense lawyer can put together a solid defense for you, thereby granting you a stronger chance against lower charges or penalties. Understanding the role evidence plays in your case thus becomes pertinent.
Once things fall into perspective for you, you will draw strength and feel supported through this difficult time. Never believe you have to face this on your own; your attorney is your ally.
Exploring Plea Bargain Opportunities
Upon discussing evidence against you, your DUI lawyer may start working on negotiating more favorable charges worthy of plea bargaining. The charges might have been reduced; if not, penalties might at least have lessened, so it will be in your best interest.
Your lawyer can work with the prosecuting attorney to present mitigating factors that show your side of the matter. It could include your clean driving record or a situation you are facing.
Sometimes accepting a plea deal requires you to admit guilt to a lesser charge while the penalties become more lenient. This is not a path you would have to walk alone, as your lawyer would be beside you all the way. This theoretically lessens the burden on you and provides you with a road to rebuild.
Challenging Field Sobriety and Chemical Test Results
You can challenge the field sobriety and chemical results if you believe there has been an error in administering the test. Factors like the weather, medical conditions, and even the officer’s lack of training can affect these results.
Showing that there was a discrepancy involved in the administration of the tests may cast doubt on the prosecution’s case against you.
Your DUI attorney will regard the very circumstances behind the tests and claim any evidence supporting your assertions. The lawyer may argue that the results are unreliable, bringing about a lessening in the charges or penalties against you. By raising such a challenge, you put your rights up front and show that you refuse to accept the situation as is. You are fighting for justice.
Handling Alternative Sentencing Options
When trying an alternative, a sentence can be crucial for life damage reduction. These might be diversion programs or rehabilitation, which will prevent you from experiencing the stigma of having a criminal record.
Your DUI attorney can take care of representing you during the selection and admission to treatment programs rather than jail time. Occasionally these programs require community service or some type of educational coursework that helps you grow.
This shows your cooperation to change. At the same time, it will help you connect to family and friends for support during these trying times.
