Drivers arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in California often have questions about their legal options. Drivers wonder if they can beat a DUI without a lawyer. It is possible to resolve DUI charges on your own successfully. However, a lawyer may help you with all aspects of your DUI case.
Working with a lawyer may allow you to get your charges dismissed. A lawyer could also work to help you secure a plea bargain or resolve your case in court. Let’s dig more into methods to address a DUI accusation now.
You Have the Right to Represent Yourself Legally
Everyone living in the U.S. has the right to represent themselves in the legal system. You may “self-represent” in California. The Sixth Amendment to the Constitution grants this right, as upheld by rulings of the court system. Many people refer to this as handling a case “pro se.”
You may even successfully resolve a DUI charge on your own in California. However, representing yourself poses numerous challenges. You will face:
- Law enforcement officers eager to secure a conviction
- Prosecutors who are familiar with California’s legal codes
- Unexpected challenges from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
These hurdles may make it harder to “beat” a DUI charge on your own in California.
You Also Have the Right to Legal Counsel in California
The Constitution grants everyone charged with a criminal act the right to representation. You may hire a private lawyer. You could also have a public defender assigned to you. In either situation, you end up working with someone familiar with California’s legal codes. A lawyer may:
Advise You Regarding Your Rights
Prosecutors may question you extensively after a DUI arrest. You do not have to answer all these questions. A lawyer may advise you regarding your right to remain silent — this may help keep your defense strong.
Review All Plea Bargains You Are Offered
In many cases, the prosecution offers a plea bargain to drivers accused of a DUI. You may take this plea bargain to resolve your case. It requires you to plead guilty to a lesser charge, like reckless driving. You must serve out the penalties associated with this charge if you accept the plea bargain. Allow a lawyer to review the deal before you agree to anything.
Fight for You in Court
Securing a not-guilty verdict for a DUI case is often difficult. A lawyer may need to investigate your case. Your lawyer may work to show that your blood alcohol content (BAC) was not over the legal limit. A lawyer could also demonstrate that an officer stopped you without due cause. Find out more about legal defense for DUI charges.
Lawyers Help with Your DMV Hearing in California
You face multiple challenges after a DUI arrest in California. You must handle the criminal charges brought against you. You may also need to handle challenges posed by the DMV. The DMV may suspend your license after a DUI arrest.
The DMV suspension of your license is automatic in many circumstances. You must request a hearing within 10 days of your arrest to prevent the automatic suspension from going through. A lawyer may help you handle this hearing, or you may attempt to handle it on your own.
Understand the Results of a DUI Conviction in California
Many drivers in California seek help for their DUI cases because the penalties are so high. Even a first-time DUI in California may lead to:
- Fines.
- Jail time.
- Restrictions on your driver’s license.
- Probation.
- Attendance in DUI school.
Additionally, all DUIs in California are “priorable,” which means they remain on your record for years. Each time you get a subsequent DUI, the penalties increase. The court may even treat a DUI as a felony if you have enough previous charges on your driving record.
A lawyer may help you resolve the DUI accusations you are facing. While you can tackle a DUI charge on your own, many drivers choose to get legal help on their sides.
Get Help Beating a DUI from a Lawyer
You may beat a DUI without a lawyer in California. However, your success is not guaranteed. You may get legal help in your corner by contacting the Simmrin Law Group. Reach out to us right now for a free consultation regarding your case. We may help with your criminal trial and your DMV hearing.
Reach us by completing our online contact form. Find out more by contacting us today.