Why Hire a DUI Attorney?
Being charged with a DUI in Washington can come with severe consequences. With your liberty and livelihood on the line, it’s crucial to have legal representation to fight the charges against you. Whether it’s your first DUI or you’ve been convicted of one before, hiring a skilled DUI attorney can help to develop a solid defense to ensure the best possible outcome in your case.
Here’s why you should hire a DUI attorney:
You Can Save a Significant Amount of Time and Money
Many people may be hesitant to hire a DUI attorney because they are concerned about the cost of representation. However, when you have legal counsel by your side, you can save a significant amount of time and money. A DUI attorney will know how to navigate the legal system efficiently and can potentially save you money not only on the legal aspect of your case, but also when it comes to your car insurance premium. With a DUI on your record, you can expect to pay a lot more on your car insurance rates. An attorney can help to get the charges reduced, or dropped entirely in some cases, to avoid an increase..
A DUI Attorney Can Help Ensure You Are Able to Keep Your Job
Another reason why you should hire a DUI attorney is because there are many hidden costs when it comes to a drinking and driving case. In addition to the legal consequences that can come with a conviction, it can also jeopardize your employment, reputation, and standing in your community. Not only might you face the possibility of jail time, but you may lose a substantial amount of wages when you are out of work — and have difficulty finding a new job with a DUI on your record. By retaining an attorney, you increase the chances that you will be able to beat the charges brought against you, avoid jail time, and keep your current job.
A DUI Attorney Will Know How to Investigate Your Case and Preserve Evidence
A good DUI attorney will be well-versed regarding what it takes to investigate your case in order to build the strongest defense possible. They will also know what type of evidence to gather and how to obtain it. If necessary, an attorney can make a motion to the court to obtain — or even suppress — the evidence the prosecution plans to use against you in the case. They will also be able to assess the weight of the evidence and develop a defense strategy accordingly.
An Attorney Can Negotiate a Lighter Sentence
An experienced DUI attorney has a deep understanding of the laws and regulations regarding these types of cases and can work to achieve a lighter sentence. While they can negotiate with the prosecution for a reduced charge, they can also try to negotiate the minimum possible penalty if this is not possible. In Washington, this can include a mandatory one or two days in jail, or house arrest instead of jail.
A DUI Attorney Can Help You Reinstate Your Driver’s License
If your license was suspended or revoked due to a DUI, your ability to get to work, school, or care for your family’s needs can be disrupted. Depending upon the circumstances, your license can be revoked upon arrest. An experienced Washington DUI attorney can guide you through the process of getting your license reinstated — and help you to avoid potential license suspension in the first place.
An Attorney Who Focuses on DUI Defense Will Know the Science
The outcome of many DUI cases hinges upon faulty breathalyzer equipment or defective chemical testing. Another common defense is the rising blood alcohol content defense. A DUI attorney will have a deep understanding regarding the science of a DUI and the knowledge to identify any flaws in your case. They will also know how to use expert witnesses that can provide the jury with insight regarding complex scientific issues.
A DUI Attorney Can Give You Peace of Mind
It’s never a good idea to try to handle your own DUI case — even if it's your first DUI, it’s more likely you will obtain a successful outcome when you have the representation of a skilled attorney. An attorney will have the experience necessary to negotiate with the prosecution. For instance, if the results of a breath test show a .09% BAC, and the field sobriety test is inconclusive, an attorney may be able to obtain a reduction of the DUI charge to a lesser offense such as reckless driving. If it’s your second offense, it’s even more critical to have legal representation in order to avoid the harsher penalties that can come with it, including extensive jail time.
Contact an Experienced Washington DUI Attorney
If you’re wondering why you should hire a DUI lawyer to represent you, it’s best to speak with one about your case. Providing skillful counsel and aggressive advocacy, the Fox Law Firm PLLC has been successfully representing clients throughout Washington in DUI cases since 1985. Contact Jon Fox for a complimentary consultation by calling (425) 584-6649.