Do you need an attorney when you go back to court after being arrested for DUI?
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Do you need an attorney when you go back to court after being arrested for DUI?
Asked on September 19, 2011 under Criminal Law, Tennessee
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Technically, no you do not need an attorney if your are arrested for a DUI. However, as a practical matter is a really good idea. The fact is that a DUI triggers 2 cases - 1 civil; 1 criminal. And any time criminal charges are involved it is always advisable to have legal counsel. An experienced DUI layer can be instrumental in either having the case dismissed, the charges reduced, or (if it comes to it) winning an acquittal at trial. A DUI case is based on certain factors that can successfully be defened against; for example, the accuracy of a breathalyzer test. And a conviction can have a drastic impact on employment, professional licensing, etc.
Bottom line, a skilled DUI lawyer can help achieve a significantly more favorable result, even if you are guilty, than pleading guilty and taking a straight conviction.
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