Experiencing a DUI is never pleasant, even if it is your first run-in with the law. If you've been charged with a DUI, seeking proper legal representation is essential. Working with a public defender is not always the optimal route. According to the Justice Policy Institute, public defenders have 25% less time to spend on a case than is typically required on average. The right attorney can guide you through the process while assisting you with avoiding potential legal consequences. Understanding just which legal consequences can be avoided with a DUI attorney by your side can help you to find legal representation that is suitable for your case.

1. Fines and Penalties

DUI attorneys are well-versed in the law and understand what their clients are being charged with each time they experience a DUI. Most often, a judge will order individuals to pay out fees and penalties that vary in amount. The fee and penalty amount will vary based on an individual's case, their blood alcohol limit when arrested, as well as any past criminal history they have to their name. DUI attorneys can negotiate with judges to reduce penalties and fines based on the case's surrounding circumstances.

2. License Suspension

Oftentimes, when an individual is charged with a DUI, they may lose their license or have it suspended. If you do not have a criminal history and you work full-time, your attorney may have the ability to negotiate on your behalf to eliminate a potential suspension. Presenting challenging evidence can also help to build your case to eliminate a license suspension or revocation.

3. Increased Insurance Rates

Whenever someone is convicted of a DUI or another driving-related offense, they run the risk of experiencing a hike in their insurance rates. A DUI attorney may work with you on your behalf to negotiate your rates if your insurance company is threatening to raise them.

4. Personal Criminal Record Changes

Ensuring that your criminal record is not impacted by a DUI is not always possible to do on your own. In order to minimize the risk of having your DUI arrest placed on your permanent record, you will need to turn to a DUI attorney. DUI attorneys will work to negotiate the elimination of a charge from your permanent record based on your history. Because criminal records can have a permanent impact on your livelihood, a DUI attorney will attempt to demonstrate why a DUI on your record will be detrimental in the long run.

5. Ignition Interlock Device Installation

If you believe you are at risk of being ordered to use an ignition interlock device in your vehicle after being charged with DUI, seeking legal representation is highly recommended. A DUI attorney will work to negotiate with a judge to avoid ordering the installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. An ignition interlock device requires drivers to blow into the device before the vehicle starts. This will determine whether or not the driver has consumed alcohol before getting behind the wheel.

6. Probation

Being placed on probation is not uncommon for those who have been pulled over and arrested for DUI. Regardless of your past, probation can occur to just about anyone, even those who do not currently have a criminal record. If you want to reduce the risk of being placed on probation, having the right legal counsel by your side is key. A DUI attorney will negotiate probation terms and work to eliminate the chance of being placed on probation in your case entirely.

7. Jail Time

One of the biggest reasons those who turn to an attorney do so after a DUI is due to the risk of jail time. Even if you have not been arrested or charged with a crime in the past, there is still a risk of serving jail time if you have been charged with a DUI. The right DUI attorney will ensure that you are able to avoid jail time, whether you opt for probation or additional fines and fees. DUI attorneys will work with the presiding judge to present your case in a manner that shows you in a positive light. This can help to significantly reduce the risk of receiving jail time for the crime.

Turning to DUI attorneys when you are experiencing a DUI of your own is always best, regardless of your record and criminal history. The right DUI attorney will not only walk you through the process of your case, but they will advocate on your behalf to minimize sentencing and potential fines and fees. If you need help with a DUI case, call the Law Offices of Jason Pollack, Esq today.