Getting What Is Rightfully Yours

Do You Need A Lawyer For A DUI Charge?

21 January 2022

Estelle Mathieu

Have you been wondering whether or not you need to get a lawyer for the DUI charges that have been laid against you? A DUI can be very serious and there may be times when you need a lawyer. There may also be times when you may be able to do without representation. However, knowing when you may or may not need representation can be difficult to assess. Here's a look at some of the major clues that you need to hire a criminal defense attorney.

A Legal Opinion

Getting a free consultation from a lawyer is possible. Many lawyers will give you a free consultation before you retain them. If you have DUI charges against you that you are not completely sure about, then a free consultation is a great opportunity for you to familiarize a lawyer with your case. 

Have a copy of your police report ready as well as any documents that may be a part of your case. During your consultation, a lawyer will let you know whether or not your case is serious enough to require an attorney.

Help With Changing Rules

The rules when it comes to DUI are constantly changing, and trying to represent yourself is never a good idea. This is especially true if you are not a first-time offender and you have been in this situation before. If people were injured because you were driving under the influence, then you will need to hire an attorney.

First-Time Offenses

If you are a first-time offender, then you may not need a lawyer. This is especially true if no one was injured while you were driving under the influence and if you plead guilty or no contest. Once you have these in your favor, you will be given the standard sentencing such as having your license revoked.

However, even if you are a first-time offender, you should at least schedule a free consultation with a lawyer just to make sure that you don't need one.

Get the Help You Need

You may not be sure whether or not you need help with your DUI case. The fact is that it is always better to have legal help if it is available and you can afford to get it. 

The laws concerning DUI arrests and penalties are always changing, and you want to make sure that you don't set yourself up for harder sentencing than necessary.

Share

Search