Don’t Plead Guilty to DUI

A common misconception associated with DUI (driving under the influence) charges is that it will be “easier” or “cheaper” to simply accept a plea bargain rather than fight your case with the help of an attorney. This could not be further from the truth. Although the specific circumstances and outcome will vary depending on the unique case, there is often much that an experienced lawyer can do to positively impact your case.

Accepting a plea bargain means that you are pleading “guilty” to the offense in exchange for lesser charges and penalties. This is generally done to save the time and expense associated with a drawn-out trial in criminal court. Although the penalties may be lessened, it is important to remember that a plea bargain will still result in a criminal record. You may still face heavy fines, license suspension and even imprisonment. Fighting your charges offers you the opportunity to avoid these penalties entirely.

The primary foundation upon which the District Attorney’s case against you will be built is the blood or breath test evidence. You, like most drivers, may assume that if you failed a breath or blood test that you will be found guilty of drunk driving. This is simply not always the case. There are ways that an experienced lawyer can challenge the results of a test of this kind. Breath and even blood tests are not always reliable. A simple mistake, improperly calibrated breathalyzer machine or mishandled blood sample may mean that this evidence is considered questionable, ruining the case against you. This is just one example of a factor that may enable a lawyer to secure a positive outcome to your case.