It is technically true that a person charged with a DUI/DWI drunk driving has the right to self-representation. But getting out of a DUI case is a far too serious matter to deal with by yourself. DUI is a crime and if found guilty can result in significant penalties. DUI/DWI drunk driving cases are handled in criminal courts using highly technical, scientific evidence. It is difficult for someone without legal experience other than a DWI lawyer to evaluate a DUI/DWI case and plan an effective defense strategy. So hiring an experienced and skilled DWI lawyer who understands the complexity of the case and has already gone through the process is almost always the best choice. We think the best time to hire a DUI attorney is at the earliest possible opportunity. It is strongly advised to retain a DUI defense lawyer if your BAC level at the time of your arrest is .08 or above. Unless you contest the case, there is very little doubt that you will be convicted of DUI/DWI charges and deprived of driving privileges. In the event you refused to take a test or failed a test, administrative license suspension laws allow officers to confiscate and suspend your driver’s license immediately upon arrest. This article looks at some of the factors you might want to consider before retaining a DUI defense attorney to handle your case.
It is important to understand that there are cases where hiring a DUI defense lawyer might not be worth it. If this is your first DUI without aggravating circumstances, and there aren’t any viable defenses available, it is advisable to accept the standard first-offense plea offer by yourself without the help of an attorney. But if you are not sure whether you have a good case, it is always best to retain a DUI attorney to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the case brought against you. If you are proceeding to trial, you will need an attorney with an in-depth understanding and expertise in DUI laws. Hiring a DUI attorney in New York generally costs between $1000 and $5000, but it will minimize the time spent in court and increase the likelihood of getting a dismissal. If you can’t afford a private attorney court will appoint an attorney from the public defender’s office. But there is a laundry list of downsides to public defender representation, as public defenders are assigned large caseloads you won’t probably get the required attention to effectively prepare your defense. If you are hiring a DUI lawyer to represent you in court, having the same attorney appear in both DMV and criminal proceedings will be advantageous to you. That way you may have a shorter license suspension period and your attorney will be able to get you a hardship privilege if you act in time.
If you or your loved one are facing a DUI/DWI drunk driving charge and live in the state of New York, contact us 24/7 at 518-608-2499 for a free consultation. We will evaluate your DUI/DWI drunk driving case and explain the best-case and worst-case scenarios. We will also answer your questions and concerns you may have about the process and steps you need to take to plan your defense. DWI Lawyer Albany [dwilawyeralbany.com] is well known across New York State for protecting the wrongfully accused and helping those facing DWI, DUI, and Drunk Driving charges. DWI Lawyer Albany has a proven track record for successfully defending the rights of thousands of individuals.
