DUI: defense, costs and consequences
Driving under influence is a crime, so its charges are handled in criminal court.
You have 3 choices for your defense:
1.You can represent yourself.
If you have no legal experience, it can be very difficoult to assess the strengths and weakness of a DUI case, and each case is unique. The opinion of an experienced DUI lawyer is really helpful. Sometimes the first consultation is free, but even if you have to pay a small fee, believe us, it's money well spent.
Bring all the documents to the consultation, to get the best advices from the attorney. It doesn't mean you have to hire him, a consultation can always be asked for.
If you get a standard first-offende plea offer, you might not need an attorney. When there are not injuried people involved, accidents or particularly high blood alcohol concentration, standard offer is the same regardless of whether you are representes by a private attorney, public defender or by yourself.
Sometimes standard offer is just a starting point that can be negotiated, so prior to accept that, it's a good idea to get a lawyer's opinion.
2.The court will appoint a Public Defender for you
if you don't have the money to get your own lawyer public defenders are usually very familiar with DUI law.
They are usually well acquainted with the district attorneys and judges, knowing their tendencies, which can be really helpful.
The negative aspect is that they're full of work (which means you won't have their full attention) and you can't choose who is going to represent you.
Generally a public defender doesn't deal with the DMV, you have to face it on your own.
3.Hire a Private Lawyer
A private lawyer usually represents you in DMV and criminal court.
Having the same attorney working on both aspects of your case it's better and shortens the license-suspension period.
Hiring a private DUI lawyer generally cost between $1000 and $5000, even more if you go to trial.
Having a private attorney can lead to a better plea bargain or dismissal of the charges, and it can minimize the time you have to spend in court, in fact you usually won't have to be present for routine court appearance.
It's better to get a private lawyer if you can afford it, especially if you are very busy with your work and can't miss many working-day being forced to be present in court.
If it's too expensive for you, you should think about getting a public defense, represent yourself can be risky and many judges won't appreciate that.