It’s important that you get professional help quickly if you are accused of driving under the influence (DUI) in California. Working with a legal professional can improve your odds of successfully resolving a DUI conviction so you can avoid fines, jail time, and the suspension of your driver’s license.
When it comes time to pick a legal representative, you may be wondering if a Los Angeles public defender can help you win your DUI case. The short answer to this question is: it’s possible. However, a public defender may not be your best option.
You can compare some of your options for legal representation right here with this article. Go over the pros and cons of working with a public defender or a private DUI lawyer with the Simmrin Law Group.
Public Defenders: Levels of Expertise
Public defenders in the state of California are often highly experienced and very competent. However, this level of experience is generally a result of the heavy caseload public defenders are expected to carry.
Some public defenders in the Los Angeles area are working on more than a hundred cases. This situation makes it incredibly difficult for them to focus on your specific needs, even though they may have the experience to develop a strong defense if they were given enough time.
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Public Defenders: Specialization in DUI Cases
As we mentioned, public defenders often end up working on dozens of legal cases at the same time. In addition to this tremendous caseload, public defenders generally do not develop a specialization in one area of the law.
Public defenders may be required to defend individuals facing many different charges. This can make it difficult for them to dig into the specialized defenses used in DUI cases. A private DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can focus on developing strategies just to help clients in your situation.
Public Defenders: Unexpected Transfers
You should be aware that public defenders are assigned by the court to assist you. This means that:
- You cannot pick the lawyer assigned to your case
- You cannot easily request a different lawyer if your first lawyer is not a good fit
- Your lawyer could be transferred and replaced with a new representative
Many drivers in California feel more comfortable when they can pick their own legal representatives. It’s important that you trust the DUI lawyer representing you in the courtroom. Additionally, with a private DUI lawyer, you do not have to worry that your lawyer will be swapped out without warning.
Public Defenders: Your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Hearing
You may face a criminal trial if you are accused of a DUI in California. You may also need to set up a hearing with the DMV following a DUI arrest. You have 10 days to request this hearing from the time you are arrested. If you do not request a hearing, the DMV can automatically suspend your license 30 days after you are arrested.
Public defenders cannot help you handle your DMV hearing. This means that your license could be suspended, even if your criminal case is resolved in your favor. A private criminal defense lawyer can use your DMV hearing to focus on:
- Obtaining police reports
- Gathering evidence prior to your court hearing
- Questioning police officers and witnesses
This process can help strengthen your chances of successfully resolving your criminal charges.
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Get Help Winning a DUI Case in California
You have options if you are accused of a DUI in Los Angeles. You may get legal assistance from a public defender or a privately retained criminal defense lawyer. These legal professionals may increase your odds of beating the DUI charges you are facing.
A private DUI lawyer may be able to offer you:
- A specialized understanding of DUI charges
- Personalized care designed to meet your unique needs
- Unwavering assistance throughout your entire court case
- Assistance with your DMV hearing
Getting the dedicated legal support you need can be simple. Reach out to the Simmrin Law Group today to get help developing a defense to DUI charges in California.
Build a Defense with a Los Angeles DUI Lawyer
Take control of your future by working with a professional DUI lawyer in Los Angeles right now. You can contact the team at the Simmrin Law Group for help today. Reach out to us by completing our online contact form or calling (310) 896-2723.
Allow our criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles to assess your legal needs with a FREE consultation. Find out more about how we can help you immediately.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form