You have been charged with driving while intoxicated. What do you do now? Some people would automatically take the steps needed to hire a DWI lawyer while others would not. But should you?
Hiring a DWI lawyer who is experienced and knows how the system works has its share of benefits to a person who has been charged with drinking and driving. The attorney will be familiar with how the court system works and will know all there is to know about plea bargains. He will also be able to effectively navigate you as his client through the, often complicated, labyrinth of administrative responsibilities that need to be taken care of.
If you are a repeat offender then finding a well-qualified DWI lawyer is even more important than if this is your first time being charged with this type of offense. If this is the first DUI (driving under the influence) charge that you have ever had to deal with and there are no additional circumstances that accompany it such as reckless driving, high blood alcohol content or a DWI with a minor in the automobile, then you may decide to not hire an attorney to represent you. However selecting a skilled DWI lawyer is always in your very best interests because you are scared and you are not acquainted with the workings of the justice system.
Should you plead guilty or not guilty to the DUI charge? If this is your first DWI and there is no doubt that you are indeed guilty then you may decide that you should plead in this manner. It would be a wise decision if there is reason to believe that you could be convicted. Before you plead guilty however you should educate yourself about the DWI laws, penalties and fines in the state that you live in. The attorney you hire should be more than willing to teach you everything that you need to know. You can work together for a successful outcome for you or at least one that will present you with as little disruption in your life as possible.
If you have decided to plead guilty then before you do discuss it with the DWI lawyer you hired. The legal professional can offer you advice and suggestions and will counsel you on what your smartest and wisest course of action would be based upon the circumstances you find yourself in. You want to make the best decision possible for your future. Your attorney can offer suggestions that may affect the length and severity of the sentence that you could potentially receive. It is possible that based upon the circumstances of your arrest and the charge that your lawyer may be able to negotiate a plea bargain deal for you. lake charles dwi lawyer