If you have been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), you may be feeling confused, embarrassed and even scared. With all these emotions coursing through your body it may be difficult to know what your next steps should be in this type of situation. That’s why we are here to help. Getting help for a DWI from a private defense attorney can help to alleviate any extra stress you may have, as well as, help you have a more positive future. There is hope if you’ve been arrested for a DWI. Many attorneys are able to mitigate and even negate charges in some cases. So your first course of action, after you’ve been arrested should be to call your DWI attorney to start fighting for your rights. DWIs are not the end of the world. You’ll see below, how getting help with a DWI and understanding the law is in your best interest.
In the United States, you are entitled to represent yourself in a court of law. However, this is almost never a good idea. Lack of knowledge of the law and courtroom inexperience puts you had a huge disadvantage against the prosecution. You also have the right to be appointed a public defender by the court. This can be an advantage for some, especially if you cannot afford the services of a private lawyer. While public defenders are highly competent lawyers, they are often juggling a massive caseload, which means they may not be able to spend as much time on your case as is needed to get the best outcome. This is why choosing a DUI or DWI attorney that has experience and understands the intricacies of the legal system, especially the laws surround DWI and DUI in your state, is usually your best option-especially if this isn’t your first offense.
How To Get Help For Your DWI Charge
So how do you go about getting help with your DWI charge? First, you need to get a consultation with a lawyer of your choosing. If you are hiring a private attorney to help with a DWI you are able to “interview” as many lawyers as you would like until you find one you know you can trust. Some things you should consider when choosing an attorney are:
- Call around and set up a consultation with the attorney or attorneys or your choice. Consultations should be free.
- Ask your attorney about their fees at the beginning. You have the right to know if you will need to pay an initial fee upfront, any ongoing fees, or even an end of trial fee to your lawyer.
- Choose a lawyer that specializes in DWI and DUI charges. You wouldn’t want a foot doctor performing brain surgery, would you?
- Choose a DWI attorney that practices in your state. An even better option would be an attorney that practices in your city. Attorneys that work in the city where you were arrested have ongoing relationships with judges and prosecution. These type of relationships are favorable for reducing charges or even having cases thrown out of court.
Additional DWI Help
There are also additional steps and classes that you can take prior to trial to help reduce charges on your permanent record. Your attorney may recommend certain classes for you to take to assist in your defense. This may include:
- Drug & Alcohol Assessment – If you’ve been arrested with a DWI, the courts will assume that you may have a drug or alcohol problem. Getting an assessment and possible treatment before the trial can assist in a favorable negotiation plea.
- Attend DWI School – Attending DUI/DWI school on recommendation from your attorney is a significant way to reduce charges, negotiate plea bargains, and even allow you to get your driver’s license again.
- Clean Up Your Driving History – If you have any other traffic violations hanging over your head before the trial. It’s imperative you get those cleaned up before you go to court. These could negatively affect the outcome of your case.
For more help with a DWI, contact DWI Springfield today to set up your free consultation. We have handled thousands of criminal cases and are ready to help you.