Consult a New Jersey DUI Attorney if Facing Charges

Did you know that a New Jersey DUI attorney can give you legal guidance so that you might be able to get your charges dismissed or reduced? In addition, a lawyer can advocate for you in court and during sentencing. Read on to learn why it is wise to get legal aid if you have been charged with a DUI. 

Reasons to get legal advice from a DUI attorney when facing charges

Lawyers review the evidence to see if cases can be dismissed or charges reduced. They also represent clients in court. Additionally, attorneys fight for lower sentences when clients are convicted. Take a closer look at each of these points.

Pursue a dismissal for the DUI charges

In 2008, 85% of those charged with DUIs in New Jersey were convicted, according to NJ.com. These people had to deal with fines, license suspensions, and other penalties. The number has been on the decline over the years, with 71% of those charged convicted in 2018. This decline is partially due to an increase in dismissals.

Twenty-four percent of DUI cases were dismissed in 2017. This could be due to a change in how these cases were handled. Thus, a New Jersey DUI attorney will review the evidence to see if it is possible to pursue a dismissal. A case may be dismissed if the police used improper procedures, the tests were inaccurate, or there was another issue with the evidence. If complete dismissal is not possible, the attorney might be able to plead the case down to reckless driving or another lesser charge.

Mounting a legal defense in court

If the prosecutors are not willing to offer a reasonable plea deal or dismiss the charges, the New Jersey DUI attorney will take the case to court. During the case, the prosecution has to show that the defendant was under the influence while driving a vehicle. The evidence related to the impairment is significant. Sometimes, law enforcement officers make judgment calls, while other times, the police use faulty equipment. Chain of custody issues can also seep into the case, causing the results to come into question.

Advocating for low penalties

Unfortunately, some people are convicted of DUIs. While some penalties are set in stone, judges may have some wiggle room during sentencing. Thus, attorneys represent clients during this stage of the court proceedings. At that time, lawyers advocate for reasonable and fair sentences. The idea is to help clients serve the shorter of the recommended sentences and pay lower fines.

Schedule a consultation with a DUI attorney

As you can see, a lawyer can help you through different stages of your case. Thus, consult with an attorney before attending court hearings or pleading to charges. Your lawyer might notice holes in the case right away and fight for a dismissal. Even if you cannot get the case dismissed, your lawyer will still represent you and try to help you win in court or at least get a reasonable sentence.