Do I need a lawyer for a DUI?

So, flashing lights pull you over and the police thought that you have been drinking. You took a breathalyzer and are now facing charges. It can be overwhelming and difficult to know what to do next. Do you need to get a lawyer? How do you even fight a DUI?

Know the potential consequences

As you are looking to face a DUI, the first thing to do is to understand what you may be up against. The consequences of a successful charge will depend on many factors: if you are of drinking age, how many previous DUI charges you have had and your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) you had. Here are some of the potential penalties that you may be facing:

• Fines
• Jail time
• Community service
• Loss of driving privileges
• Driving restrictions
• Job loss
• Difficulties furthering education
• Relationship strains

How a lawyer can help

A DUI can have consequences that change your life. Though the charges may be difficult to fight on your own, a lawyer may be able to help you. Many defenses involve the validity of your arrest. First, an attorney may consider whether the stop was warranted. Police cannot pull people over without reason, but rather must have valid justification. They may also challenge the breathalyzer results if it was administered improperly.

A DUI can be life changing. Remember that if you are under arrest, you have the right to call a lawyer before making a statement or answering questions. Talk to a criminal defense attorney about how to fight or minimize your DUI charges.