Plea Offers and Bargains in Canton DUI Cases

Every year, Canton area law enforcement officers charges thousands of people with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Mandy of those accused plead guilty to the DUI charges, despite the harsh penalties of a DUI and the effect they my have on the citizens career, education, and driving record for years to come.

Should you find yourself charged with a Canton DUI, there are three general ways in which the case can be disposed. These are (1) a dismissal of the DUI charges by the judge or solicitor, (2) via a guilty plea, or (3) an acquittal or “not guilty” verdict.

The 1st method, dismissal of the DUI charges, is by far the best. If your DUI lawyer can get the charges dismissed, the case is over and your DUI is gone.

The 2nd method to resolve a DUI case is through entering a guilty plea. A guilty plea is the most common way to end a case. Usually, Canton prosecuting lawyers will extend a plea offer in which they will recommend a sentence to the judge in exchange for the defendant to plead guilty to the charges of DUI. This offer is generally to the full DUI charge and asks for jail time, community service, DUI school and fines. Even if you do not want to challenge the charges and plan to plead guilty, a DUI lawyer can usually help you negotiate a plea bargain with less jail time, fines, and community service requirements. Skilled attorneys can get assist those accused of DUI in getting charges reduced to reckless driving, getting fines and jail time reduced, and helping restore driving privileges.

The 3rd way a case is resolved is by bench or jury trial. If the individual facing the DUI charges is not guilty of DUI, and the Canton prosecuting attorney refuses to dismiss the case, a trial will be scheduled in the case. During a trial, the accused can impeach the state’s evidence, contest the validity of a breathalyzer, and bring forth witnesses of his or her own. Experienced DUI lawyer Richard Lawson has had great success in contesting and winning DUI trials.

To discuss the above outlines options and the facts of your case, call Mr. Lawson for a free consultation.