A DUI, or driving under the influence, is a term used for drinking and driving arrests. If you drink and drive, Georgia law will penalize you.
But everyone makes mistakes. One of the best defenses you have is to simply call a cab or ask for a designated driver. If you do make the mistake of driving drunk, the penalties can be severe. This makes it very important to prepare an effective DUI defense.
What penalties can be expected after being caught drinking and driving? Even with the first offense, there are fines, license revocation, and in some cases jail time. If you get multiple DUI offenses, you can expect fines to double, likely extended jail time, and a longer license suspension. If you hurt someone while driving, you may face felony charges.
How do I defend a DUI?
Here are some tips:
Some DUI offenders make more mistakes beyond drinking and driving. There is no reason to in any way offend the officer. Of course violence is always bad, but if you hurt someone, it could ruin your life. Be honest, be careful, and don't say too much. You have rights too, and if the officer infringes upon them, you can use this to defend your case.
Hire an Experienced DUI Lawyer
This is your best tip and most important: hire an experienced Cherokee County DUI attorney. There are many options, but do your research. Don't just hire the first you one you find in the phone book.
How can your lawyer help? If you face felony charges, you may go to prison for years instead of months. If this is your first drinking and driving charge, you may not know your rights. No matter your situation, an experienced Cherokee County DUI attorney can plan a strategy for defense.
Ask Questions
As many as possible. This includes to the officer, to the judge, and especially to your lawyer. You are involved in a very serious process and you have the right to know what the charges are, what the penalties for these charges are, and how you can fight them.
Know Your Rights
If the officer mistreated you or violated your rights in any way discuss your options with your attorney. Officers make mistakes too; bad news for them, good news for you.
You can sometimes win a lesser penalty or in some circumstances have your case thrown out.
Plan a Strategy
Planning a DUI defense can be hard, but with an experienced Cherokee County DUI attorney, your trial can be quick and easy. While the lawyer knows how to defend you, consider the above tips, and give feedback.
These are just some of the ways to defend a DUI, but no two cases are exactly alike. Call the Law Offices of Richard S Lawson immediately if you have been arrested for any type of DUI offense.