Let A DUI Lawyer Protect Your Rights

By: William Wilson
Submitted: 2007-01-17 16:23:42
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The consequences of Driving Under The Influence, or DUI, charges are far reaching. The criminal justice system can be a complicated process and the penalties of a DUI are quite severe. You should be aware that in some cases, those convicted of a DUI are subject to significant fines, legal costs, court costs, and even jail time.

Every person facing this charge is in need of a good defense and protection of their rights. The reason you need to obtain an experienced DUI lawyer is that research shows that many individuals arrested and charged with DUI are not guilty because they haven't had too much to drink. While the State has a duty to enforce the law, persons accused of crimes such as driving under the influence are still innocent until proven guilty.

There are a number of opportunities to build a solid defense for these cases, as it was found that breathalyzer machines can often give false readings. Successful defense of a drunk driving charge requires specialized defenses. Attorneys that specialize in this particular type of case are best qualified to formulate your defense and protect your rights in court.

Who Gets Arrested for DUI

Statistics show that males between the ages of 16 and 24 are most likely to be arrested on DUI charges. Most individuals arrested are middle class working citizens. Sadly, DUI statistics also indicate that approximately one-third of those arrested are repeat offenders.

DUI Fines and Penalties

The penalties for DUI are different than those for DWI (Driving While Intoxicated), but are still severe and can result in long term negative consequences for you and your future.

The penalty for a first DUI offense can be limited to just a fine. However, the fines can vary and sometimes are very large. Also, in some states, fines may be doubled if a passenger under 16 years old is riding in your car.

But, depending on the jurisdiction, the penalty can also result in the revocation of your license, a criminal record, a short jail sentence, and/or public service. Prosecutors in many states have pressed for tougher penalties because many DUI suspects, especially repeat offenders, refuse to take the breathalyzer test. Unfortunately, these more severe penalties affect those who have been cooperative or have been wrongly accused.

For those who are repeat DUI offenders, you will generally face mandatory loss of license, jail time, and significant fines and court costs. So, just accepting the charges without a strong legal defense is a formula for personal disaster.

DUI Legal Defense

A DUI lawyer can help mitigate or reduce the charges and ensure that your rights are protected to the extent of the law. The plain facts are that many people arrested and charged with DUI are not guilty. Even if you have made statements at the time of arrest, they can be thrown out as part of the proceedings. A qualified DUI attorney will know all the details and the legal procedures involved.

The penalties for DUI are severe, and should be taken very seriously. Being found guilty of a DUI charge can have life-altering consequences for you and your family. So, think about it - can you afford to be without legal counsel? Not a chance!

Article source: Expert Articles