Is getting a DUI lawyer worth it? If you have a driving under the influence (DUI) arrest in Las Vegas, you’re probably wondering if you need legal representation. Nevada DUI laws are notoriously harsh, and fighting them is a task best left to a professional. So, what can a DUI attorney do for you? Here are five benefits to consider if you are facing DUI charges.
#1. Knowledge and Understanding of the Legal System
By working with a criminal defense attorney familiar with Nevada law enforcement, prosecutors, and judges, you also benefit from their interaction with these agencies and mutually respectful working relationships.
An experienced DUI lawyer has years of working in the legal system. This knowledge and understanding of DUI law are valuable for those facing penalties that could seriously impede their family, relationships, jobs, and future.
Take a look at the potential consequences of a DUI conviction:
- Misdemeanor DUI penalties: Suspended license or vehicle registration, installation of an ignition interlock device, community service, fines, and jail
- Felony DUI penalties: Lengthy license or registration suspension, installation of ignition interlock device, steep fines, prison, and permanent criminal record
#2. Can Help Reduce or Avoid Jail Time and Other Penalties
DUI lawyers can help you avoid jail time by negotiating with the prosecution for reduced penalties on a DUI conviction. They could plead extenuating circumstances or look for weakness in the prosecution’s case and argue that:
- It’s your first offense, and you have an otherwise clean record (if relevant).
- You are willing to enter an alcohol treatment facility.
- You took an improperly administered or uncalibrated test.
- The officers violated your rights with an unlawful search and seizure.
- You have a medical condition that resulted in a false positive test.
#3. Protecting Your Driving Rights
Going to work or caring for your daily responsibilities is nearly impossible without a valid driver’s license. Getting a DUI charge can result in a suspended license or registration. Plus, state law requires drivers arrested with a BAC of 0.08 percent to pay for an ignition interlock device if they wish to retain their driving privileges.
An experienced DUI lawyer can:
- Take you through the necessary steps to appeal a suspension
- Seek an earlier reinstatement of a suspended license
- Help you understand your obligations for an ignition interlock device
#4. Make the Case Less Stressful
Individuals charged with a DUI offense often experience stress and anxiety about their situation. On top of that pressure, state prosecutors can be aggressive in their pursuit of winning their case. A qualified DUI defense lawyer can alleviate much of the stress of fighting a criminal charge.
When handling DUI cases, they take care of:
- Communicating with the prosecution
- Filing motions
- Examining evidence
- Meeting court deadlines
- Representing you in court
#5. Save Time and Money
Considering that it could result in dropped or reduced fines, the expense of hiring an experienced attorney is often far less than the cost of handling one’s own DUI defense in terms of time and money. An experienced DUI defense attorney is a skilled negotiator who knows how to resolve your situation as quickly and effectively as possible.
Contact the Experienced DUI Attorneys at Adras & Altig Now
Can a lawyer help with a DUI? Find out today when you contact Adras and Altig, Attorneys at Law, for a free consultation. Our Las Vegas DUI lawyers have a thorough understanding of Nevada DUI laws. We are ready to listen to your story and answer your questions.
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At Adras & Altig, we believe that every client we work with deserves a fresh start. Our dedicated Las Vegas criminal defense attorneys take the time to get to know you so we can understand the circumstances surrounding your arrest.