How a DUI Lawyer Can Help You Avoid Jail

If you have been accused of a DUI, you should find a DUI lawyer who can keep you out of jail. Find out the methods that are typically used.

Many people are afraid of the penalties that come with drinking and driving, with the most feared consequence being jail. Most states require that those convicted of driving under the influence spend anywhere from a few days in jail to a few months. Find out the main ways a good DUI lawyer can help you avoid this penalty.

Your DUI lawyer may be able to reduce the charge that does not involve alcohol. If so, it will be less severe, and the penalties will be decreased, too. If your attorney can reduce the charge to one that does not feature jail as a possible punishment, you can retain your freedom. You will probably also have reduced fines, fewer hours of community service, and no substance abuse treatment requirement. It all depends on the charge you end up with, so talk to your legal representative to discuss your options.

You may or may not be convicted of driving after drinking. However, even if you are, many states allow people to avoid jail time based on a few conditions. If you are a first time offender and have an otherwise clean record, you can probably avoid incarceration. Your DUI lawyer will just have to provide evidence that you are not an established criminal, and that you have good character. You may be able to help with this task, which means you need to talk to your legal representative before pursuing this option.

Even if you are convicted of the crime, your DUI lawyer should be able to negotiate when it comes to the penalties. One of the most common negotiations is that a client can keep his or her freedom if community service is substituted. Though spending your time doing community service may be undesirable, it usually beats being locked up and missing time at work. This is why you should hire someone who can fight to help you keep your freedom, even if it means cleaning up on the side of the street for several hours. Just be sure to let your attorney know you are interested in this option before any negotiations take place.

You should choose an attorney with a past record of helping clients avoid incarceration. You can check case histories and also ask if this is a common outcome. Some lawyers are not experienced with negotiating or providing character references, so it is important to choose one who has shown that he or she is capable of this kind of result for your case.

Article Tags: Avoid Jail, Community Service

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