First Offenses: Do You Really Need a DUI/DWI Lawyer?

By Mary Beth Harrell | February 22, 2019

If you’re arrested for a DUI/DWI, it’s essential to understand the risks this poses for your future — especially if you opt to go it alone. If you are convicted of DUI/DWI – even your first – you will lose your driver’s license, pay a fine, court fees and surcharges totaling thousands of dollars. You may face jail time. If you’re placed on probation, then you may be ordered to install an interlock device in your vehicle.

A lot of people mistakenly believe that a first-time DUI arrest is no big deal. Although many first DUI offenses are classified as misdemeanors, that doesn’t hold true in every case.

If the allegedly intoxicated driver’s actions resulted in the injury or death of another person, the driver could be sentenced to 10 or 20 years in prison, even if it’s their first offense. Having a child present with you in the car at the time of your arrest can also result in felony charges. If these or other serious circumstances were a factor in your case, you will benefit from seeking out assistance from an experienced DUI/DWI lawyer. Because you could face serious prison time, it’s a smart idea to hire an experienced lawyer to mount a serious defense and potentially reduce the charges against you or get them dismissed.

For example, if your field sobriety test results can be called into question, your BAC levels were inaccurate, or arrest procedures were not followed, your DUI lawyer may be able to get the case dismissed or reduced to a lesser charge like attempted DWI/DUI or reckless driving.

The experience and training that your lawyer brings to your case makes a huge difference in the outcome. In most cases, it’s recommended that you hire a reputable lawyer — even for a first DUI arrest. For more information on how our firm can help you, please contact our knowledgable DWI lawyers today at 254-312-2349 or by filling out our contact form.

Posted in DUI Defense