Facing a DWI or DUI charge can be overwhelming and frightening. One of the most critical decisions you’ll make in this scenario is whether or not to hire an attorney to represent you. While some individuals may consider handling their case on their own or even holding off on hiring an attorney, delaying your decision can have massive repercussions on your future.
Don’t make the mistake of doing this alone. The following is what tends to happen when you don’t hire an attorney, or you hire the wrong DWI/DUI attorney:
What Happens When You Don’t Hire a DWI/DUI Attorney Right Away
Increased Risk of Severe Penalties
Without an experienced DWI/DUI attorney by your side, you may face harsher penalties than you would with an experienced defense lawyer in your corner. These could include:
- Fines: Courts impose hefty fines for DWI/DUI convictions, and without an attorney to negotiate on your behalf, you could end up paying the maximum amount allowable by law, especially if it’s not your first offense.
- Jail/Prison Time: First-time offenders can face possible jail time, but repeat offenders are at a higher risk of jail and/or prison sentences. A DWI attorney can help reduce or eliminate jail time.
- License Suspension: A DWI/DUI conviction can lead to the suspension or revocation of your driving privileges. As we’ll discuss in a later chapter, a lawyer might be able to secure a restricted driving privilege or even challenge the suspension.
Missed Opportunities for Case Dismissal or Reduction and Lack of Negotiating Skills
An experienced DWI/DUI defense attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that you might otherwise miss. These may include:
- Challenging the Traffic Stop Itself: If the law enforcement officer lacked probable cause for the stop in the first place, you might be surprised to learn that your case could possibly be dismissed.
- Questioning the Sobriety Tests: Field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results are not infallible. Our experts can challenge the accuracy and administration of these tests.
- Negotiating Plea Deals: DWI/DUI attorneys can negotiate plea deals that reduce charges or penalties or even get you into a diversion program, something extremely difficult to achieve on your own.
Lack of Knowledge About Legal Procedures
Navigating the legal system is difficult, especially in the DWI/DUI realm and for those unfamiliar with it. Defense lawyers understand the procedures, deadlines, and necessary paperwork involved in a DWI/DUI case. Without access to this knowledge, you risk:
- Improper Filing: Incorrectly filed documents can delay your case, putting you at a significant disadvantage, essentially fighting an uphill battle from day one for a seemingly inconsequential mistake.
- Missing Deadlines: Failure to meet court deadlines can result in additional fines, stricter penalties, or even an automatic guilty verdict. Needless to say, you need a trustworthy DWI/DUI attorney on your side.
Risk of Harsher Long-Term Consequences
A DWI/DUI conviction can have long-lasting effects on your life, including:
- Employment: Many employers conduct thorough background checks, and a conviction can have a negative impact on future employment or could even result in the loss of your current job.
- Insurance Rates: A DWI/DUI conviction typically leads to higher insurance premiums and requires you to file an SR-22.
- Permanent Record: A conviction will stay on your criminal record, potentially affecting future legal matters and opportunities.
Increased Stress & Anxiety
In addition to the previously stated overwhelming and frightening feelings, facing a DWI/DUI charge is stressful. Handling it alone can boost this anxiety. Without a skilled DWI/DUI attorney, you’ll need to manage:
- Gathering Evidence: You’ll need to collect and present compelling evidence, including witness statements and expert testimonies. This takes time and expertise that our lawyers already possess.
- Court Appearances: You will need to represent yourself in court. This may seem simple, but, trust us, it’s not – it is intimidating.
- Cross-Examination: Cross-examining police officers and any other witnesses without extensive legal training can be daunting, ineffective, and can actually have an adverse effect. Imagine questioning the same officer who pulled you over.
The Importance of Hiring the Right Attorney for Your DWI/DUI Case
While the above describes what happens when you don’t have an attorney, by hiring the Combs Waterkotte DWI/DUI legal team you will get 24/7 availability as well as talented, tenacious lawyers who will:
- Protect Your Rights & Challenge Evidence: From the moment you’re taken into custody to the conclusion of your case, we will:
- Make sure that law enforcement followed proper procedures during the traffic stop and arrest.
- Challenge any evidence – field sobriety test, breathalyzer, blood or urine samples.
- Advocate for fair treatment in court.
- Minimize Penalties & Consequence: While lawyers at many other law firms may jump at the first plea deal offered, the Combs Waterkotte DWI/DUI attorneys aren’t afraid to go to trial. We have a strong record of getting not guilty verdicts. We can also:
- Advocate for alternative sentencing options
- Secure reduced charges or penalties
- Help you get a hardship license, called a limited driving privilege, letting you continue driving for work/school and other essential purposes
- Develop a Strong Defense Strategy: The right attorney will analyze the specifics of your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a tailored defense strategy. This may include:
- Questioning the validity of field sobriety tests.
- Investigating whether proper protocols were followed during your arrest.
- Challenging the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood/urine test results.
- Presenting evidence of any medical conditions or other factors that could have affected your test results.
Hiring the right DWI/DUI attorney immediately after being charged is essential for protecting your rights and minimizing the impact of the charges. An attorney experienced in DWI/DUI claims can navigate the complexities of the legal system, challenge any evidence against you, and work to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Don’t risk your future by delaying this important decision.
