You’ve been busted. You’re facing a DUI charge and that can be a very scary thing. If it’s your first time, you may be terrified as well as confused. When do you need to hire a DUI Attorney in Mount Vernon WA?
An experienced DUI attorney has many benefits. The most important being they are already familiar with the court system. They can help you navigate through the complex procedures. If you are facing your first DUI, there are no additional charges or circumstances, and you plan to plead guilty the case is relatively simple. Some offenders may choose to use the public defender in this circumstance. However, if you are a repeat offender, facing multiple charges, or plan to fight the charges, an experienced DUI attorney can be your best asset.
If you are hoping to plea bargain, a DUI Attorney in Mount Vernon WA can help to negotiate a favorable deal. If your blood alcohol level is fairly close to the legal limit or your field sobriety test was inconclusive, the prosecutor may be open to reducing the charge. An attorney can work with the prosecutor’s office to negotiate a lesser charge such as reckless driving. If the prosecutor does not feel they can prove the DUI charge in a jury trial, they may settle for the reckless driving charge, which is far less serious. In Washington State, a DUI can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the circumstances. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor charge.
If you have not decided if you plan to plead guilty, an attorney can help you to understand the charges and consequences you may be facing. Persons convicted of DUI can face jail time, work release, probation, alcohol education, ignition lock or suspension of driver’s license. This can also involve expensive fees for education classes and probation monitoring.
Facing the court system can be an intimidating experience. A DUI attorney from Howson Law Office can assist in guiding you through the process. They can help review all possible consequences and outcomes based on your particular situation. While hiring an attorney can seem like an expensive task, it may help to save hundreds or thousands of dollars in the long run.
