Being charged with a DUI not only affects a person’s reputation, but the arrest can also put them in jeopardy of losing both money and freedom. When someone is charged with a DUI for the first time, many people will advise them that hiring an attorney is a waste of money. Unfortunately, this leads many DUI defendants to simply plead guilty and take the penalties that come their way instead of allowing an experienced attorney to help them fight for their good name. For those first-time defendants who are seriously considering going it alone in their DUI case, here’s why they may want to rethink that strategy.
A DUI Conviction Isn’t Always Inevitable
Being charged with a DUI doesn’t mean that a defendant will be automatically convicted. However, a defendant’s chances of a conviction are much higher when they don’t have help from a trusted DUI Lawyer in Williston ND. Because attorneys are very familiar with the latest DUI laws, they know how to spot holes and inconsistencies in the prosecution’s argument. An attorney will do the work of gathering and combing over police reports, breath test results, witness statements, and other evidence that could cast doubt on their case. Without an attorney’s help in doing this, it will be highly unlikely for a defendant to obtain a positive outcome.
Plea Bargaining Can Work In The Defendant’s Favor
In some cases, a defendant may not be able to avoid a DUI conviction. If this is indeed the case, a DUI Lawyer in Williston ND, will be able to quickly recognize the need to work out a plea deal with the prosecution. It is a well-known fact that many prosecutors don’t like to negotiate these deals with defendants. An experienced attorney knows what prosecutors want to hear, and they may be able to use their extensive negotiation experience to get a reduced jail sentence or smaller fines in exchange for a guilty plea.
No one wants to find themselves facing jail time and financial penalties for a DUI, but it happens all the time. Whether it’s the first offense or a defendant has been down this road before, it’s in their best interests to seek legal help from a reputable DUI Lawyer. Get in touch with one today learn more about how they can help defendants and their families better navigate the criminal justice system during this difficult and confusing time.