Being arrested for driving under the influence can be quite a stressful situation. Many people, however, consider this to be somewhat of a normal offense, perhaps because it is something that occurs on a regular basis. It is important for you to understand that although this does occur regularly, you should still have the right DUI defense lawyers by your side whenever you walk into the courtroom. There are a number of reasons why this is the case, as well as some suggestions as to what type of lawyer you should be hiring.
One of the first things that you need to understand about driving under the influence is the fact that it carries a mandatory suspension of your drivers license. It is not simply that you are going to have a criminal trial, although that certainly is going to take place. You are also going to have a hearing before the Department of Motor Vehicles, at which time your license may be suspended. The length of the suspension is going to vary, depending upon how many different times you were charged with driving under the influence.
It is important for you to have DUI defense lawyers with you, not only whenever you are facing criminal charges for driving under the influence but also whenever you are at the hearing with the DMV. The reason why this is the case, is because the outcome of the DMV hearing can be different, depending upon the evidence that is brought to light as well as the negotiation that may take place between your lawyer and the DMV. For example, even if you do lose your license for a period of time, you may still be eligible to receive a work permit so that you can drive for this purpose. This is typically given in almost every case during your first offense but it may be harder to secure from that point forward.
You should also know that the hearing with the DMV has absolutely nothing to do with your criminal trial. It is also important for you to have DUI defense lawyers with you from the very beginning of the criminal proceedings as well. There are a number of different outcomes that can occur, and you would want to make sure that you avoid the possibility of jail time, which can take place, even from your first offense. It is also possible that, according to evidence that is brought to light, you may be able to have your conviction overturned and perhaps walk away without any charges at all. DUI defense lawyers will work toward that and.
Of course, it is important for you to choose the right DUI defense lawyers, as not all of them are going to represent you in the same way. Perhaps one of the most important things that you can do is to hire somebody that is a solo attorney and not part of a larger firm. They are the ones that are going to take care of you on a personal level and make sure that you get the attention you deserve.
It seems to happen whenever you least expect it. You’re out with friends having a good time, perhaps you have a few drinks and then you decide to head home. Although you feel perfectly fine, your evening is shattered whenever you’re pulled over and charged with driving under the influence. This story is repeated many times, and unfortunately, many people don’t understand the legal ramifications that come from these types of charges. One thing that I will tell you, however, is that it is important for you to contact a DWI defense lawyer from the very first moment that this occurs. Here’s why.
Something that you’re probably not aware of is the fact that even from the first time you were caught driving under the influence, you’re facing the possibility of six months behind bars. Of course, each subsequent time you were caught with the same violation, the charges are going to increase. Another thing that you are facing is the possibility and the likelihood of a driver’s license suspension for one year, as well as fines and probation with the possibility for community service. All of these things require the help of legal assistance if you want to be able to reduce the charges to the lowest amount possible.
First of all, you have a hearing that is going to take place with the Department of Motor Vehicles. You will receive notification about this within a few days after you have been charged with driving under the influence. If you have not contacted the DWI defense lawyer by this point, it is important for you to contact one now. You do not want to go into this hearing on your own, more than likely you’re going to lose your license without any question. A DWI defense lawyer, however, may be able to bring some inappropriate behavior to light on the part of the arresting officer and this may be able to help you keep your drivers license.
As far as the criminal trial is concerned, this is also an area where you would want to have your attorney by your side. If you decide to defend yourself, you’re giving up your right to remain silent which means that the prosecuting attorney is going to do everything in their power to get you to incriminate yourself, not only on this charge but on other charges as well. You will also not be able to negotiate with the prosecuting attorney, but a DWI defense lawyer will. Make sure that you give yourself the benefit of having an attorney whenever you go into court and you will usually fare much better.
Choosing a DWI defense lawyer may be a little bit difficult, but really if you keep a few things in mind, you shouldn’t have too much trouble. Make sure that you choose a lawyer that is going to give you the personalized attention that you need. This means that they should be the one that you talk to when you call in and that they should work on their own, so that they will become familiar with your case.
| BAC Levels |
Operating Under Influence |
Driving While Intoxicated |
| 21+ yrs. Old |
.08 – .09 |
10+ |
| Under 21 |
.02+ |
|
| CDL Holder |
.02+ |
|
Note: BAC levels of .16 or higher will subject the accused to potentially greater penalties.
Driving is a privilege, not a right. The DMV giveth and the DMV taketh away. Under Connecticut General Statutes, section 14-227b, any and every licensed driver has agreed to submit to alcohol and/or drug testing. Failure to do so allows the Department of Motor Vehicles to suspend the license of the person who refuses to be tested.
See Refusing a Breathalyzer or other BAC Test
