WHY YOU SHOULD FIGHT A DUI CHARGE
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If you were pulled over by a cop and now find yourself with drunk driving charges, you are probably scared about what will happen next. Too many people assume they have no options and plead guilty. This is a big mistake. Not only is it possible to fight DUI charges, but your standard of living could depend on it.
Here are 3 reasons you should consult a criminal defense lawyer about fighting your charges:
A failed sobriety test does not mean guilt.
Many people give up hope when they fail a test or a breathalyzer reads an illegal BAC level. This is evidence of intoxicated driving, right? Not necessarily.
There are many defenses against these situations. For example, the officer needs to have a valid reason to pull you over in the first place. If they did not, nothing that occurred during the stop is relevant in court. It is also common for breathalyzer tests to give inaccurate results.
You could face heavy penalties.
Being convicted of a DUI is a serious matter that you want to avoid. You would have to pay various fines and face jail time. You would also be required to attend rehab classes. In addition, your driver’s license would be suspended for months, which would greatly hinder your ability to get to work, the grocery store and other necessary places. Because you can fight a DUI, there is no reason you should accept these penalties without looking into your legal options.
A DUI affects you for years.
DUIs do not only carry short-term consequences. Your life could be affected for a long time. A DUI shows up on your criminal record, which could be viewed by a potential employer or landlord. One conviction now could hurt your chance of employment or housing later.
You will also face even harsher penalties if you are convicted of a DUI again within 10 years. The penalties increase for each DUI on your record.
Finally, your insurance premiums rise if you are convicted of a DUI. You do not have to face the consequences of one incident for years to come. Speak to a skilled criminal defense lawyer about your case and how to defend against these consequences.