What Do DWI Attorneys Do?
Helps You Decide Whether to Take a Plea Bargain
A plea bargain is supplementary for a criminal trial. Pleas constitute a considerable percentage of convictions in most DWI cases. Judges will always embrace the chance to nod to a plea bargain and avoid lengthy and tedious court proceedings.
You can either decide to plead guilty or settle for a 'no contest'. Pleading guilty may haunt you since it acts as evidence during future criminal appearances. ‘No contest’ pleas cannot be provided in court as evidence of guilt may be brought forward, in case a victim reopens the case. When it comes to deciding which type of plea of settle for, it is crucial to access the services of a DWI attorney to help you make an informed acceptance.
Explains Your Charges
A DWI attorney will prep you on what to expect in court in instances where you cannot place a plea bargain. The entire court process can be time-consuming and strenuous hence you require an experienced attorney to walk with you step by step. If you are a repeat offender, the facts of your case are always different from your previous cases and so are the charges. State laws on DWI offenses are always evolving due to the uniqueness in every case. A DWI will give you an assessment of the outcome of a case depending on the prevailing laws. Additionally, a DWI attorney will help you understand the laws and regulations that guide your case and help you from being manipulated into giving evidence.
Protects You from the Prosecutor
If you decide to take the stand on your own, a DWI attorney may be able to advise you against this to protect you from facing prosecutors alone and succumbing to their pressure. Prosecutors will always work towards winning in their favor and propose very harsh sentences such as going to jail. An attorney will also advise you on when to keep your mouth shut to avoid giving out information to the prosecutors that may act as evidence against you in a court of law. The attorney will also bargain with rigid attorneys to have an open approach to your case to have a softer landing.
Act as an Administrator
You may be required to appear for an evidentiary hearing, and a DWI attorney will assist in setting up such a meeting. The attorney will also help in mobilizing for witnesses and juries and classifying evidentiary information. Also, a DWI attorney can assist you to fulfill certain requirements and observe legal deadlines before appearing in court. The attorney will also follow up on the court’s ruling on your case and ensure you adhere to some resolution such as attending an alcoholic’s reform program or road safety training.
When required by the court to settle court fees and fines, the DWI attorney will be able to help you process them.
Negotiate for a Lesser Injunction
Most DWI attorneys have previous encounters with prosecutors who will indict your case. They are therefore in a position to come to an amicable solution related to your case. They can negotiate for softer sentences or mutually decide with the prosecutor to strike off some of the charges. When found guilty, your defense lawyer may be able to land you a laudable sentencing program. Such may include serving time in prison for a short time and work in community service for the remaining period. Additionally, a DWI attorney may be able to request the jury to consider sending you to a rehabilitation facility.