Driving under influence (DUI) cases are handled in a criminal court. If charged under a DUI case, you have the right to represent yourself in court, but it is advisable by Holcomb Law, LLLC for defendants to hire a DUI lawyer or use the representation of a court-appointed public defender. DUI laws are quite complicated and keep on changing. In such a scenario, hiring an experienced DUI lawyer will be the right thing to do. They will guide through the whole conviction process and courtroom trials due to their expert legal knowledge and familiarity with state law.
When do you need a DUI lawyer?
Opinion about the case:
DUI law is complicated and constantly changing. When charged with DUI, the first thing you need is someone with legal experience or training to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the case. You cannot do it on your own. You will need the opinion of a DUI lawyer in such a scenario.
Defend against potential charges:
If you are caught up in a DUI case, it is considered a serious offense even for a first-time offense. This is when you should immediately hire a DUI lawyer, who will defend you against potential charges. The lawyer will help minimize the sentence of the client as well as help the driver understand how to reduce financial and legal harm following an arrest.
Not aware of driver rights:
As a layman, you might not be familiar with DUI law and the rights that you get if charged under it. In such a scenario you immediately need the help of a DUI lawyer. The lawyer has expert knowledge regarding the rights of drivers facing a potential conviction. As a professional, they will make you aware of all your legal rights and help you through the entire legal process.
To go to trial:
You can represent yourself in a DUI trial. However, it will be a bad idea to do so without having expert knowledge about it. Lack of legal knowledge and trial skills will put you at a severe disadvantage in court.
Summing Up
To sum up, it is better to hire a DUI lawyer as soon as possible after you are accused under the law. This will give the lawyer ample time to prepare for the case, form a legal defense, and seek a favorable outcome from the case.