Our society is less and less tolerant of drinking and driving offenses. Even if you have never had a traffic infraction before, you may be alarmed at the driving under the influence (DUI) penalties that you could encounter. For example, in the state of Ohio, a conviction under new DUI laws can result in jail time ranging from three days to six months. In addition, a DUI offense in Ohio can result in license suspension for anywhere from six months to three years. If you think that just because you have not had a previous traffic offense you will be treated gently with your first DUI offense, you may be sadly mistaken.
It is in your best interest to seek an attorney for any DUI ticket that you receive. Rather than hope for a slap on the wrist, the cautious person will seek advice from criminal defense firm that is familiar with any and all new DUI laws that are being enforced. Local and federal authorities are increasingly concerned with the safety of our roads. Using Ohio as an example again, more than 1.1 million people in that state, which equals about one in every seven licensed drivers, has at least one conviction for driving while impaired. Furthermore, according to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, 44,789 people in Ohio have five or more DUI convictions. These alarmingly statistics have police as well as state troopers making the enforcement of new DUI laws a priority.
If you drink at all, you should avoid getting behind the wheel. In many states, driving a car means that you have granted implied consent. An implied consent law means that if you refuse to submit to a chemical test, you will automatically be subject to a fine and automatic license suspension. If you are pulled over for driving activity that the officer considered suspicious, you will have very few options. Because you are driving, in any state with an implied consent law, you will be asked to take a chemical test. Even refusing will get you in trouble. It is at this point that you should realize that you need to call the best DUI attorney as soon as you are given a chance.
Even if you submitted to a blood alcohol content test, you may still be able to challenge the results. An experienced DUI attorney in your state can help you navigate the options you have. For example, breathalyzer tests, blood tests and urine tests must be properly administered; otherwise they may be inadmissable in court. If you are facing DUI charges, your attorney can analyze videos, contact witnesses and challenge breathalyzer tests in order to help your case. Your goal should be to avoid a DUI charge at all costs. A DUI leaves you with a criminal record that could affect your employment prospects, ability to obtain loans, and future opportunities, so it is worth your money to get help as soon as you can. DUI attorney cost is money well spent.