Is It Worth Getting an Attorney for a DUI?

Driving under the influence is considered a serious criminal offense. The consequences that await you for a conviction are not pleasant, either.

Besides jail time, other penalties like hefty fines, suspension of your drivers license, hiked insurance premiums, and even loss of employment are a possibility. Worse, a DUI conviction results in a permanent criminal record that employers, future landlords, and others can see.

When it comes to getting an attorney after a DUI, some people feel like their fate is already sealed and settle for the public defender for representation. Others are worried about budgeting for an attorney without the guarantee of a win. They wonder, “Is it worth getting an attorney for a DUI?”

To answer this, here are five ways that a local DUI attorney from Hersem Law can help you during this difficult time.

Assess Your Charges to Build a Case Strategy

Winning a DUI starts with a thorough review of the charges to determine the strengths and weaknesses. An attorney will evaluate your case to determine the best approach to apply when representing you in court.

Without knowledge of DUI law, it’s nearly impossible for you to get started right with building a winning strategy.

We’ll Defend You Against Your Charges in Court

When you’re convicted of a DUI, there’s no other option than to face the consequences. Some include prison time and a criminal record. A DUI attorney’s role is to defend you so that this doesn’t happen.

Depending on your case, defenses like unlawful arrest, inaccurate breathalyzer readings, insufficient evidence, or illegal stop can be effective. Here, the goal is to get your charges thrown out, reduced, or influence a less harsh sentence, like short probation.

Oversee the Legal Procedures

A DUI case is a tedious legal process. For instance, you have only ten days from the day of arrest to send a plea for appeal, failure to which you’re automatically convicted.

Having a legal professional relieves you of this burden. A lawyer knows which documents are required, reports to be filed, deadlines to adhere to, and has a record of your court dates. This also means that you don’t have to appear for every hearing.

Protect Your License During FLHSMV Hearings

A DUI charge also threatens your freedom to be behind the wheel. After an arrest, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) will expect you to appeal the suspension of your drivers license as soon as possible. These hearings are different from your court proceedings. And the process if you’re an underage and got a DUI.

An attorney’s presence and defenses can improve the chances of your license not being suspended at all.

Get in Touch with a DUI Attorney

Is it worth getting an attorney for a DUI? The answer lies in how much you stand to lose when you don’t consult one, which is a lot.

A DUI lawyer’s expertise and experience with such cases is your best bet to winning and having your charges reduced or even dismissed altogether. Reach out to the professionals at Hersem Law by dialing 813-251-7291 or filling out our contact form below to get a free strategy session.