Do You Need an Attorney For Your First DWI Charge?

We’d all like to believe that we make sound decisions when we’re behind the wheel. But recent statistics show that this isn’t always true — especially when it comes to driving under the influence. In fact, data from last year revealed that 18.9% of survey respondents admitted to driving while being buzzed.

Logically, we all know that drunk driving is a serious and potentially deadly problem. But when we’re under the influence of alcohol, we aren’t always able to make the best choices. If you’ve found yourself in legal trouble for driving while intoxicated, you may not even realize how major the ramifications might be. Let’s discuss why you need a DWI attorney if you’ve been arrested for drunk driving.

Do You Really Need a DWI Attorney For a First Offense?

Because drunk driving is fairly common, some people make the mistake of believing that it isn’t a big deal. Others might think that if this is the first time you’ve ever been arrested that you won’t face any huge consequences. Both of these ideas are unequivocally false.

Although everyone has the right to represent themselves in a court of law, this isn’t a right that we’d typically recommend that anyone exercise. A DWI attorney will have the knowledge and first-hand experience necessary to craft a defense for you and ensure your rights are protected. Without legal counsel, you will likely be coming in at a disadvantage and may not have the resources needed to protect yourself and your future.

How Can a DWI Lawyer Help You?

First-time DWI offenses do often come with a standard sentence. This may be why some people assume they don’t need a DWI attorney; after all, if they’re going to receive the same sentence with or without legal help, they think that it might not be worth the trouble and the potential cost.

But even if you feel the evidence is clear and you plan on pleading guilty, having legal assistance can be highly beneficial. Your lawyer may be able to negotiate a plea bargain or a reduced sentence, for example. It’s even possible that your attorney could successfully argue that the charges against you be dropped if there isn’t sufficient evidence to move forward.

Keep in mind that if there were any aggravating circumstances present with your case — such as having a child in your car at the time of the incident or causing injuries as a result of your drunk driving — you absolutely need help from an attorney. While first-time DUI or DWI offenses are often treated as misdemeanors, aggravating circumstances can mean felony charges. As a result, you could face prison time. You’ll want an experienced lawyer by your side if this applies in your situation, as that one decision to drive drunk could impact your entire future.

Ultimately, hiring a DWI lawyer is always advisable — whether your first offense took place without incident or you’re facing a potential felony charge as a result of drunk driving. If you have been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, you deserve excellent legal representation. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact our team today.