Getting arrested on a drinking and driving charge is the last thing most people want. Even if you have no criminal history, you can lose your driver’s license, be forced to pay a large fine and suffer damage to your reputation. And aggravating factors like a car accident with significant injuries can make the situation even more serious for you.
Four ways a DUI defense attorney can help
Therefore, after a DUI arrest in Fort Myers, the most important thing to know is what a defense attorney can do to help you. Here are four examples of how a skilled and dedicated lawyer can help you deal with drunk driving charges.
- Explain the law and criminal procedure to you and how they apply to your case
- Challenge any evidence that the police obtained illegally, such as by pulling over your vehicle without a reasonable suspicion of a crime first
- Negotiate with the prosecutor to work toward a reasonable plea bargain that might keep you out of jail and restore your driving privileges
- If necessary, question witnesses, present evidence and so on at trial
Unless you qualify for a public defender, hiring a criminal attorney is not free. But it can be a huge savings in the long run. Your lawyer may deliver you an outcome that reduces or eliminates the risk of incarceration and restoring limited driving privileges. Being free and able to drive might save your job. Also, putting your case in the hands of a trusted professional can lower your stress and worry. You can focus more on working and taking care of your family.