A first-time charge of driving under the influence does not mean that a judge will go easy on you. The fact that you had a perfect driving record until now, does not mean a judge will be gentle with you. The penalties for a DUI conviction are serious. Taking advantage of the experience and legal knowledge of a Phoenix DUI defense attorney is a sensible way to approach a DUI charge in Phoenix.
Reasons to Hire a Phoenix DUI Attorney
Five reasons why you need to talk with an attorney before deciding how to handle a DUI charge are:
- An attorney understands the evidence required to prove the charges against you.
Being arrested for drunk driving is different from being convicted for drunk driving. You need an experienced Phoenix DUI attorney to review the evidence against you to determine if the evidence is admissible in court and relevant to the criminal charges against you.
- A lawyer can explain the fines, and penalties assessed for a DUI conviction.
DUI convictions may include a variety of penalties, such as fines, jail time, license suspension, ignition interlock devices, probation, and alcohol education courses. Understanding the potential penalties you may face for a DUI conviction can help you decide between a trial or a plea bargain.
- Your attorney explains the other consequences of a DUI conviction.
The consequences of a DUI conviction go beyond the court assessed penalties. For example, your car insurance rates may be much higher for several years after a DUI conviction. You may not be eligible for certain jobs that require a clean driving record. When a person has not faced a DUI charge, it can be difficult to understand the long-term consequences. An experienced Phoenix DUI attorney explains all potential consequences, so you have all information to decide what you need to do to handle a DUI charge.
- DUI attorneys have trial experience.
A DUI arrest may be the first time that you appear in criminal court. The procedures and rules for criminal court are different from civil court. The prosecutor has experience handling cases in criminal court. You need to have someone representing you that has as much if not more experience handling DUI cases.
- Attorneys have access to expert witnesses.
In some cases, expert witnesses may be necessary to help prove your case. Attorneys work with expert witnesses and know when to employ these professionals to help a client build a strong defense to drunk driving allegations.
A Phoenix DUI Attorney Provides Support and Guidance
It can be stressful and frightening to face a DUI charge. For individuals who have never been arrested, the criminal justice system can be confusing and overwhelming. Attorneys are legal advocates for their clients. They protect a client’s legal rights and aggressively fight for justice for their clients. However, attorneys also provide support and guidance for clients facing potential jail time and other DUI penalties. Having an experienced, trusted attorney on your side can ease the stress and anxiety of dealing with a DUI charge.
Contact the experienced DUI defense attorneys at Arizona Lawyers today to learn more about how we can help you defend yourself against DUI charges.