Creating Aggressive Defense Strategies for DUI Offenses
Unlike other traffic violations, DUIs are criminal charges that can carry criminal penalties. Whether you are a first-time offender or you have a criminal history already, you could face hefty fines, mandatory DUI school, a driver’s license suspension, and more. Having a DUI conviction on your record can make it challenging to apply for jobs or secure housing in the future.
If you have been charged with a DUI, the best way to protect yourself is by working with a team of experienced DUI defense attorneys. At the DUI Defense Group, our team has extensive experience working with clients facing DUIs and other traffic-related charges. We are confident that we can create a solid legal strategy to get you the outcome you deserve. For more information and to receive a free consultation, contact our office today at 866-927-3295.
What Are the Potential Penalties for a DUI Conviction?
In most cases, DUIs are classified as misdemeanors and carry misdemeanor penalties. However, if your DUI involved bodily injury or death of another person, you could be charged with a felony. Felony charges often carry more severe penalties and could include a mandatory jail sentence.
The most common penalties individuals face for a DUI conviction include:
- Six months driver’s license suspension
- Three to five years of probation
- Ignition interlock device (IID) installation
- Expensive fines
- Three months of a drug or alcohol education program
If you have prior DUI convictions, you will likely face harsher penalties. Judges are much less lenient on repeat offenders and could impose the maximum penalties. Our team can help you defend yourself whether you are a first-time offender or you already have a criminal record.
What is a DMV Hearing?
A DMV hearing is an optional hearing you can request up to ten days after your DUI arrest. If you are arrested or detained for a suspected DUI, the police will send a notification to the DMV. A DMV hearing officer will review the charges against you and determine whether to suspend your license. In most cases, if you are charged with a DUI, you will automatically have your license suspended by the DMV.
At your DMV hearing, you can present evidence in your own defense to prove that you were not driving under the influence or that your arrest was unlawful. If you win this DMV hearing, your license will be reinstated. If you lose the hearing or you do not request a DMV hearing, your license will remain suspended.
Your DMV hearing is separate from your criminal proceedings and does not impact your criminal record. However, you may face an additional license suspension through the criminal court if you are convicted of a DUI.
What Are the Most Common Defense Strategies for DUI Cases?
DUI charges are serious, but fortunately, there are ways to fight against a conviction. Your particular defense strategy will depend on the nature of your charges, any bodily injury involved, and your criminal history. However, there are some common defense strategies our team often relies on.
Your DUI defense strategy may involve the following:
- The police did not have probable cause to detain or arrest you
- The police did not have probable cause to make a traffic stop
- You have a medical condition that impacts your blood alcohol content (BAC) levels
- You have a medical condition that could be confused for intoxication
- Your breath or blood test results are inaccurate or have been tampered with
What Does a DUI Defense Attorney Do?
As your DUI defense attorney, a member of our team will review all the evidence in your case to determine the best legal path forward. We can represent you at both your DMV hearing and during any criminal proceedings. We will negotiate with prosecutors to determine if a plea deal is in your favor. If not, we will begin preparing your case for trial.
Our team at the DUI Defense Group focuses solely on cases involving DUIs and traffic-related violations. We are confident that we can assist you with your DUI charges. To receive a free consultation from an experienced member of our team, contact our law office today by calling 866-927-3295.