When facing a DUI charge, you have the option to fight it alone or hire an attorney to represent you. According to www.danielfloreslaw.com, representation for first offenders can cost between $1,500 and $5,000. Given how expensive it could get, it’s understandable how most people wonder if getting a DUI lawyer is worth it.
However, having an attorney handle the case can give you better results and ensure your rights are protected. Because of how serious the penalties can get, it’s always a good idea to work with a DUI lawyer for your case. To help you make well-informed decisions, we’ll take a look at the penalties you could face and what a lawyer can do to help.
What is a DUI?
DUI is an acronym for “driving under the influence” and is considered a serious criminal offense. Although all states have laws prohibiting this act, it’s important to note that each of them defines DUI differently. Most state laws, including the California code, use the term to refer to driving while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both.
In some jurisdictions, it doesn’t matter if the drug you ingested was illegal, over-the-counter, or prescribed by the doctor as long as it impaired you. Additionally, all states except Utah have per se DUI laws that prohibit people with a blood-alcohol level of 0.08% or higher from driving. Both types of DUI laws can apply to adults operating cars, motorcycles, scooters, boats, and bicycles.
What are the Penalties You Could Face?
A DUI conviction is not the same as reckless driving, over-speeding, and other driving-related violations. The degree of punishment for DUI tends to be more information severe and can affect your future and employment. Moreover, the consequences you’ll face typically increase with each conviction. Below are the penalties California imposes for people found driving under the influence.
Penalties for the first DUI offense:
- A fine of $390 to $1000 plus penalty assessments and fees
- Jail time of up to six months
- Driver’s license suspension up to six months
- Three to nine months of DUI school
Penalties for the second DUI offense:
- A fine of $390 to $1000 and additional penalty assessments and fees
- 96 hours to one year in jail
- 2-year license suspension
- Three to five years of probation
Penalties for the third DUI offense:
- A fine of $390 to $1000 with additional penalty assessments and fees
- A jail sentence of 120 days to a year
- 3-year license suspension
- Three to five years of probation
Penalties for the fourth DUI offense:
- A fine between $390 to $1,000 plus penalty assessments and fees that can total up to $18,000
- 16 months to three years in state prison
- License suspension of up to four years
- Three to five years of DUI probation
How Can a DUI Lawyer Help You?
Sometimes, working with a lawyer to defend your DUI case at court is more work than it’s worth. If it’s your first time facing a DUI offense and the arresting officer has strong evidence against you, it might be best to accept the sentence and standard penalties. But if you believe the officer didn’t have probable cause to stop you or the evidence collected was illegal in any way, then you should consult with legal counsel.
In most cases, getting a lawyer for a DUI charge is worth all the expenses and trouble. These legal professionals can take all the burden from your hands and ensure your rights are protected. Let’s go over some of the ways they can help and the reasons a DUI lawyer is beneficial for your case.
Developing an Effective Defense Strategy for Your Case
A DUI lawyer has the knowledge and experience to know what works and what doesn’t to achieve the best result for your situation. They can help find loopholes in your case and develop an effective defense strategy. These skilled professionals may know various ways to win your case.
Reducing Your Sentence
Even if you’re found guilty of driving under the influence, a DUI lawyer can still help you negotiate a bargain and reduce your sentence. They may be able to reduce the fines and lower your license suspension, probation, and even jail time.
Takeaway
If you or your loved one is facing DUI charges, it’s always a good idea to seek advice from an experienced DUI lawyer. They can investigate the facts behind your case, see if you have a high chance of getting a favorable outcome, and answer your questions. Should you wish to proceed with a lawyer’s help, they can ease the stress of your situation and fight for your rights.