If you have been charged with DUI, you could face a variety of penalties if convicted. These penalties could make it difficult to provide for yourself or your family. Therefore, it is important to understand your rights and how to leverage them into a favorable outcome in your case.
Do Research Online
There are many online resources that can help you learn more about the law and what defenses there are to a DUI charge. For instance, you could learn more about how to challenge the legality of a traffic stop or the legality of a blood draw. You could also learn more about the part reasonable doubt can play a role in a DUI case and how to create it.
Read a Legal Magazine or Publication
If you don’t have access to a computer, it is possible to do research at a local library. While there, you will be able to read through a variety of magazines and publications full of legal advice pertinent to your case. However, be sure that you read the latest version of any book or article to ensure that the information is as accurate as possible. A librarian can help you find where legal books and magazines are kept to save time.
Talk with a Judge or Prosecutor
While you will want to hire a lawyer to defend your rights, it can also be a good idea to speak with a judge or prosecutor to learn more about case law. The judge in your case may be able to direct you to resources that can make it easier to learn about and understand your rights. The court clerk can also be a valuable resource to use in crafting a defense to a DUI charge.
Hire an Attorney
As a general rule, you will need a DUI lawyer to help you get a favorable outcome in your case. An attorney likely has the experience and knowledge needed to get a plea deal, get a case thrown out or convince a jury to acquit you of the charge. If you cannot afford a legal representative, one may be appointed to defend you.
A DUI charge is not something to take lightly. Avoiding a conviction may mean avoiding jail time or a hefty fine, which will likely justify the cost of hiring a lawyer. However, researching DUI law may allow you to provide your attorney with relevant facts and information that could be used to help in your defense.
About the Author: Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. She went to college at The Ohio State University where she studied communications. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and long walks in the park with her husky Snowball. You can find her on Twitter at @LizzieWeakley and on Facebook at facebook.com/lizzie.weakley.
