It is estimated that someone in the United States dies from an alcohol-related crash every day. In many states, a third of all fatal car accidents involve alcohol. If you find yourself charged with a DUI, it is important to know your legal rights and what you can do to protect yourself.
The Importance of Hiring A DUI Attorney
In Ohio, a driver is guilty of DUI if his or her blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08% or higher. There are always mitigation for DUI charges, but many drivers still end up with serious consequences.
A criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your case and protect your rights. A lawyer will help you avoid harsh penalties and find more lenient punishments by providing expert legal counsel.
A well-qualified attorney will not charge an hourly fee for their services, and they won’t waste time on frivolous cases that don’t have merit. They work hard to ensure their clients get the best possible outcome in their cases.
A qualified DUI lawyer will also guide how to handle a DUI case if it goes to court, giving you the best chance to avoid jail time for your offense.
What to Expect in Your First Meeting With Your Attorney
In your first meeting with your attorney, you will discuss the offense and what charges could be filed. They should also walk you through the criminal process and let you know what to expect.
Your attorney needs to know as much about it as possible to ensure that your case is properly handled. Many lawyers work in a limited geographic area, so they might not be able to handle your case. Make sure to find an attorney who specializes in DUI defense.
If you are charged with a crime and need legal assistance, make sure to contact an experienced attorney immediately.
What To Expect During Trial
First, you should be prepared to listen to any and all testimony from the arresting officers and witnesses during the trial. In some cases, this testimony may be supportive of your innocence. However, it is still important to be prepared for whatever testimony is given.
Second, you should expect to receive a notice of suspension from your license or vehicle upon being charged with DUI. This means that you will not have the privilege of driving on the same day you are charged with a DUI. It also means that you will have to arrange for transportation in order to get around while you await your trial date.
Third, don’t worry if your lawyer has not returned your calls right away; they’re probably busy preparing for trial. Sometimes, lawyers can take a few weeks before they contact their clients so they can fully prepare for the case’s proceedings.
The best-drunk driving defense starts with a call to Hartlevin.com. We have the experience and knowledge you need for your DUI case, no matter how complicated it seems on paper. Whether you’ve been arrested in California or New York, we’re here to help from start to finish so that you can get back behind the wheel as soon as possible without worrying about what’s going to happen next.