North Carolina Criminal Law UpdatesDriving under the influence is dangerous and illegal. And, if you’re caught you could face jail time and fines, not to mention humility. The best thing you can do to avoid a DUI is to hand over your keys or find a different mode of transportation if you’ve been drinking.
If you’ve been pulled over and charged with a DUI, then you better be prepared for a long road ahead because the justice system does not take these cases lightly. Over 50% of fatal highway crashes involving two or more vehicles are alcohol related with many resulting in severe injury or death.
If you’ve been involved in a DUI incident and you’re wondering why you should get a DUI attorney, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’re discussing seven reasons why it’s so important to have an attorney on hand. Keep reading to learn more.
Avoid Testing Requirements
One of the penalties that may be incurred as part of your punishment is expensive and burdensome, not to mention random urinalysis testing. You will be required to report to a testing facility once per day in order to find out if you’re required to test. If you miss a test, it could affect your probation and end you up in jail.
Testing requirements can be difficult to adhere to if you are working or have limited transportation. Remember, you will probably lose your license for a period of time which will inhibit your ability to make appointments.
A DUI attorney may be able to reduce this penalty or have it expunged so that you can maintain a normal life. Without an attorney, you’re not likely to convince a judge to reject this requirement from your case.
Future Employability
A DUI will go on your criminal record if not handled properly. Consider this when you’re applying for new jobs. It could affect your current employment as well.
A DUI attorney will do their best to keep the charges to a minimum so that you’re not at risk of having a criminal record. You may be able to serve community service and/or pay other fines in order to keep this information private.
If you want to save yourself the embarrassment of being rejected for a potential job, then you should consider hiring an attorney to handle your case for you.
Keep Your License
As soon as you’re arrested for a DUI, your license is immediately restricted until further notice. You won’t be able to drive at all for the period of time which you are going through court proceedings. But, a DUI attorney may be able to get your charges reduced enough so that you can get your license back when the case is over.
Without an attorney, you run the risk of losing your license for up to a full year from the date the case is decided. This could have a serious impact on your home, work, and social life. If this is not your first offense, you could lose your license for even longer.
Avoid Ignition Interlock Devices
An ignition interlock device is installed in your vehicle which requires you to blow into it each time you get in your vehicle. Your vehicle will not start without this procedure. In most cases, these devices are required for a minimum of one year after your offense.
These devices are embarrassing and can cause significant anxiety for any passengers you may have. They are also expensive and you are responsible for purchasing and installing the device on your own.
A DUI attorney may be able to have your case reduced so that this requirement is waived.
Avoid High-Risk Insurance
Your DUI attorney can also negotiate lesser charges in your case in order to avoid high-risk insurance premiums. These premiums are mandatory for at least three years after receiving a DUI and can have a serious impact on your financial situation.
It’s also important to note that you could lose your insurance altogether depending on the terms and conditions of the outcome of your case. A reputable attorney can help you navigate your insurance options so that you may remain insured and eligible to drive.
Reduce Court Costs
Court costs and fines will add up quickly with a DUI case. And, while you’ll need to pay your attorney, you could save a significant amount of money by allowing the attorney to try your case instead of representing yourself. He or she can help you reduce fees and fines payable to the court so that you can budget your finances successfully.
Limit Probation
As with any criminal case tried in the court system, you will be required to report for probation for at least ninety days if you’re found guilty of a DUI charge. But, a DUI attorney may be able to reduce your charges so that probation is not on the table.
Probation is expensive and embarrassing, not to mention that it can significantly disrupt your schedule. Allow your attorney to negotiate these terms for you so that you can save time and hassle.
Contact a DUI Attorney Today
Contacting a DUI attorney to handle your case is your best bet against spending time in jail and spending your life savings on outrageous fines. You should look for an attorney in your area, specifically one that deals with cases in your county, or the county where you were arrested. This will ensure that the attorney is familiar with the technicalities of your case and maybe even has a good standing relationship with the judge that handles your case.
A DUI is a serious offense and it could disrupt your life for years to come if not handled properly. Make sure that you discuss all details with your attorney and be up front an honest about your mistake so that he or she may be able to serve you best.
If you or someone you love has been involved in a DUI, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation. We have over 30 years of experience and dedicated lawyers to help you