Facing any kind of criminal charge can be intimidating. Like anyone in the same position, you would want immediate relief. Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious criminal charge in Oklahoma. If you have been charged with DUI in El Reno, your first step should be to seek legal help. You don’t need any other lawyer but someone who specializes in criminal law and has worked on DUI cases. Law firms like Fassio Law offer affordable consultations, and at the least, you should meet a competent lawyer to know the process ahead. In this post, let’s discuss DUI cases in El Reno in more detail.
Understanding DUI cases
If you are found driving or in physical control of the vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher, you will be charged with DUI. The criminal penalties for DUI in the state depend on various factors, including your criminal history. If this is your first offense, you may face up to one year of jail with fines up to $1,000, along with license suspension for 180 days. You may face up to five years in jail for a second offense, with license suspension for a year and fines up to $2,500. A third offense could mean spending a maximum of $5,000 in fines, a jail term ranging between one to ten years, and license suspension for at least three years. These criminal penalties are harsh, and if you are arrested, your license will be automatically suspended, even when you haven’t been convicted.
Meeting a DUI lawyer
If you are new to finding DUI defense lawyers, you can ask around for references. When you don’t want others to find out, you can always check online listings for El Reno. The good news is many law firms don’t charge a hefty fee immediately. When you go to see a lawyer, they will start by discussing your arrest and answering your questions related to the criminal process. They will give you their first impressions and check whether you can retain your license.
Once a DUI defense lawyer agrees to take your case, they will review and collect evidence from various sources. They are also in charge of representing you in the administrative hearing and future court hearings. They may choose to defend you in numerous ways and will negotiate with the prosecution accordingly to have the charges dismissed or reduced. Being honest with your attorney is essential. Even if you are at fault, you should take steps to mitigate the consequences. A DUI lawyer can only help when you are transparent with facts and details.
Evaluating evidence
DUI defense lawyers have their ways of evaluating and examining the evidence of the state. There could be a case of tempered evidence or improperly administered sobriety tests. Breathalyzers used for measuring the alcohol content might be defective, or in some situations, there could issues with the accuracy of the tests. The lawyer will also check whether the investigating or arresting officer followed the necessary protocols during the arrest and whether your rights have been violated. Sometimes, the strategy may hinge on witnesses, available camera footage, and even experts.
Don’t delay seeking help
There are civil issues that you can choose to postpone, but criminal charges demand immediate attention. Your reputation, job, and life could be at stake, and you would want to avoid consequences to the best extent. The sooner you engage a DUI defense lawyer in El Reno, the better you are with your strategy. If you have any questions or want to know the lawyer’s approach, do not hesitate. A competent attorney will always make time for a client to educate and explain laws and details.
