DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) Lawyer Atlantic Beach FL
DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) Lawyer
Do You Need a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) Lawyer?
Every state has some sort of "drunk driving" statute. The term "drunk driving" is in quotes because none of these laws require that you be "drunk" or "intoxicated" to be guilty. All that is required is that your ability to operate a vehicle has been impaired to any extent at all or that your Blood alcohol level exceeds the state limit (which is now .08% in all states). Some states call it DUI (Driving Under the Influence), but it refers to the same offense. The consequences of DWI differ drastically from state to state and are influenced by your age, blood alcohol limit (BAC), whether you have been arrested for DWI in the past, and whether you caused injury or death during the DWI.
Deciding whether or not to hire an attorney is a personal choice. Here's what you should consider before doing so:
A DWI lawyer can help
- Assess your legal situation. An experienced lawyer can help you understand what you are up against and the fines you may be required to pay. Many DWI lawyers only deal with DWI matters and know the process inside and out - including options that a public defender may not tell you. In addition, many offer a free consultation - which may be worthwhile if you don't understand the process.
- Explain the consequences. The consequences of a DWI vary greatly from state to state and a DWI lawyer will be able to explain how those consequences apply to you such as (1) harsher punishments for those arrested with BAC limits over .08 , (2) special laws for underage drivers arrested for DWI, (3) possible community service or plea bargaining, (4) overlapping jurisdiction of Courts and the state's Motor Vehicle licensing department to suspend or revoke your license, and (5) contingent license programs that allow you to use your vehicle to get to and from work.
- Manage the process. Dealing with a state's motor vehicle department can be frustrating and time consuming. A lawyer can manage the process for you by completing the required forms; making phone calls; scheduling and/or representing you at a Motor Vehicle Department suspension hearing, and making other necessary arrangements.
- Represent you in court. An experienced DWI lawyer knows the ins and outs of the courtroom and may be able to obtain a lesser sentence for you if your situation and state law allow for it. Attorneys who are DWI specialists may know the personnel involved and what arguments work best with the local authorities in your situation.
Should you hire a DWI lawyer? The answer to this depends on your personal and financial situation, the state in which you live and your ability to handle the process on your own. Here are some general guidelines:
- Definitely. Definitely hire a DWI lawyer if you have already have several DWI's and receive another; or if your DWI arrest was the result of an accident or if anyone was injured; or if you are a professional driver whose livelihood depends on keeping your license.
- Probably. Seriously consider hiring a DWI lawyer if you've been arrested for a second DWI (in the same or another state) or were arrested with a BAC limit over double your state's legal limit as harsher penalties may apply.
- Maybe. You might want to hire a DWI lawyer if you don't understand your rights or your state's DWI laws, what you need to do, or the consequences you face. You also might want legal representation if you are in a profession (or plan to be) that requires bonding or in which any criminal conviction might prevent you from getting or keeping a professional license. If you don't know the requirements, then you need expert advice before handling the case yourself.
Post our case to a DUI Attorney in your area. No Cost. No Obligation.
(Updated August 30, 2007)
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