Driving under the influence carries stiff penalties in California and across the nation. At just a BAC of 0.08% or higher, a person convicted of a DUI faces a possible 6-month jail sentence, a fine of up to $1,000 and a mandatory requirement to complete a DUI program on the first offense. Also, according to the DMV, the vehicle may be impounded, resulting in additional fees. Avoiding this lengthy and expensive process at all costs is always the best option. That’s why hiring a Laguna Beach DUI lawyer is so essential, and here are three reasons you will want to choose an attorney after a DUI arrest.
To Reduce Charges
The first reason to consider hiring a DUI lawyer is to help with the reduction or the complete dismissal of the charges. In cases where a BAC is exceptionally high, drugs were involved, or someone was hurt or killed during the incident, an attorney can help negotiate the terms of a sentence to help a client receive a smaller penalty. It’s also possible that an attorney can help reduce the fine required by the courts under certain circumstances. In some cases, an attorney, with proper knowledge of the laws and regulations, can even work to convince a judge to drop the charges altogether.
Avoiding Driving Restrictions
In addition to helping get your charges reduced, a Laguna Beach DUI lawyer could also help reduce the restrictions you have when you can drive again. This year marked the start of a new ignition interlock device law, which requires drivers with more than one DUI to install individual devices on their vehicle. It’s also possible that those who plan to take an extended trip in their car could be required to submit to additional breathalyzer tests before hitting the road. With the assistance of an attorney, the requirements put in place before you drive could be kept to a minimum.
License Concerns
Along with being a threat to your driving license, a DUI conviction could also harm any professional licenses you may have. For those in the education, healthcare or even real estate industries, a DUI conviction could mean officials will revoke their licenses. An attorney can prevent this from happening.
Seeking guidance from a Laguna Beach DUI lawyer is recommended whenever you’ve been pulled over or charged with a DUI. Doing so will help ensure you are aware of your charges and make the best decisions regarding your case going forward. Therefore, before signing any documents or submitting to police questioning, make sure you have a qualified DUI attorney in your corner.
