When you are under the influence, you may not be able to see straight or clearly, your thoughts may be foggy and distracted, and your reaction time will be slowed. Because of this, if you are driving under the influence, your chances of getting into a car accident increase greatly. This is dangerous not only for you as the driver, but for everyone else on the road as well. If you get caught, you will be issued a DUI.
What Is a DUI?
DUI, which stands for driving under the influence, is a serious crime that can result in jail time, hefty fines, and license revocation. You may also be ordered to take a driving class and/or put a breathalyzer in your vehicle for a certain period of time. Each state will vary when it comes to punishment for a DUI.
If you have been convicted of driving under the influence, you will now have a DUI on your record. This means that you were caught operating a motorized vehicle with a blood-alcohol content over the legal .08% blood-alcohol content limit by law enforcement. This does not mean you need to be drunk to get a DUI. If you feel buzzed, be smart and get a ride. If you have been caught driving under the influence, you will need the help of a lawyer.
What Is a DUI Attorney?
A DUI attorney is the type of attorney who specializes in defending those who have been arrested for driving under the influence. A DUI attorney will be an expert in the laws surrounding DUIs in your area. You do always have the option of representing yourself or working with a public defender but hiring a DUI attorney gives you the best chance of getting a lower sentence or fine.
What Does a DUI Attorney Do?
A DUI attorney's main goal is to get your charges dropped or lowered as much as possible. Your DUI attorney will do the following things to meet that goal:
- Represent you in court
- Negotiate with the prosecutor
- File all paperwork and documentation before the deadline
- Provide legal advice
- Inform you of your plea options and their likely outcomes
Your DUI attorney will also look into the traffic stop, field test, arrest, and booking procedure to see if the law enforcement officers made any mistakes. If your DUI attorney can find a mistake in the procedure, they will have a chance at getting your case thrown out.
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