How a DC DUI Lawyer Can Help You

The term DUI refers to ‘driving under the influence’ and is usually used in reference to drink driving offences. If you are charged with a drink driving offence it is a good idea to seek the advice of a qualified and experienced DC DUI lawyer as soon as possible. Under state law you do not have to be drunk or even intoxicated to be charged with DUI, but there has to be sufficient evidence that your driving has been impaired or that you have a blood alcohol level that exceeds .08%.

You may not feel it necessary to hire a DC DUI lawyer and this is your personal choice. However, it is worth considering how a DUI lawyer can help your case before you make your decision. Not only can they advise you on how to proceed with your defense, they can also tell you about the likely penalties you will face, the court process and the state law that is applicable to the charges against you.

An experienced DC DUI lawyer will help to assess your legal situation and in particular make you aware of the fines or penalties that are usually handed down in cases such as yours. It is important to note that the majority of DUI lawyers will only deal with DUI cases and therefore have expert knowledge of the law and legal processes involved.

The consequences of a DUI conviction in Washington DC can be very serious so it is important to know what they are and how they apply in your case. Severe punishments can be handed down for those with a blood alcohol level well in excess of .08% and for those with previous DUI convictions. If you are an underage driver then there are special laws applicable to arrests made under DUI laws and there is also the possibility of community service, the contingent license program and the entering of a plea bargain.

If you do not understand the legal process before you then hiring a DUI lawyer is your best course of action. Not only will they defend you in court, but they will also manage your case from the moment you hire them. Managing your case can entail communications with relevant authorities such as the state motor vehicle department, filling in and filing of forms and representing you at the suspension hearing at the motor vehicle department.

When your court hearing arrives your lawyer will represent you in court and present a defense on your behalf with the aim of achieving an acquittal or a lesser sentence. An experienced DUI lawyer will know the court process and possibly the personnel involved allowing them to build a stronger argument for your case.