Driving under the influence is a criminal offense, yet people often take a few beers shot and sit behind the wheel in Sante Fe. Next, a breathalyzer and field sobriety tests, and when arrested with DUI charges, a series of consequences lay ahead. Maybe it’s a first-time offense, yet things may worsen if you don’t take legal help. Find yourself a Sante Fe DUI lawyerto reduce the sentences.
It is stressful to get arrested for DUI charges and not knowing what to do or what can happen next to a layperson. So, we have created this blog to make you aware of what to expect and what can be averted. Read on!
Getting out of prison and bail
Typically, after you get tested positive for alcohol consumption and driving under its influence, you will be jailed. How long the jail term may happen is based on the type of accident. Having a lawyer beside you can reduce your jail term or get you out on bail.
Finding DUI lawyers
There are many DUI lawyers, but the challenge is to find someone who will be right for you. So, you can start talking with a few of them or seek the help of your friend or family to do it on your behalf. Most attorneys offer a free consultation at first. To decide upon a lawyer, you must find out about his success ratio in DUI cases, their experience, and whether hiring them fits your budget.
Charges against DUI offender and legal processes
The prosecutor decides whether to file charges following a DUI arrest. After the arrest, you will have to do some paperwork mentioning the date and time of the accident. When the prosecution goes ahead in charging you as an offender and takes your case to the judge, having yourself represented by an experienced lawyer will save you. You have to opt to hire an attorney to which the judge gives the nod and a fixed duration of a week or two.
When you have a legal aid besides you, your case hearing starts. In case of a misdemeanor, you get a right to trial within a month. But if not jailed, you can waive a speedy trial and take the process slower.You don’t have to worry about the details of your matter; an attorney will take care of them.
DUI Trials
Though not so common, if your case ends up in the trial court, your lawyer will fight your defense and can take the initiative to cross- verify the testimonies and evidence presented by the prosecutor. Finally, the judge will decide if the prosecution could prove the charges.
Common penalties
Based on the DUI charges, whether grave or simple, the likelihood of the penalty will vary. If the judge finds you guilty, you will be sentenced. Having a lawyer by your side, the consequences can be reduced, say the fines and the jail term. And in case your attorney can prove your innocence, then you have nothing to worry about.
Conclusion
To sum up, we have provided a list of sequences that arises when charged with driving under the influence. A reputed DUI lawyercan help you represent and ease out the process. It’s always a wise decision to hire an attorney as soon as possible.