dui lawyer in west chester pennsylvaniaDrinking and driving is an inherently dangerous proposition, and not only for the grave risk of injuries and fatalities for yourself and others. The potential consequences of a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) are serious, and can derail your life.

Indeed, on an average day in Pennsylvania, 28 alcohol-related traffic crashes occurred, injuring about 18 and killing one. Though alcohol-related fatalities are declining slightly, crashes are increasing. In Chester County, about 15 persons die every year in alcohol-related traffic accidents.

Many people try to handle DUI charges on their own, or they may work with an assigned public defender in the effort to minimize the effects of their DUI. If you have been charged with DUI and are considering your options, there are several reasons to think about hiring an experienced DUI lawyer instead, including:

1. You Are a Commercial Driver

Perhaps you are a truck driver, delivery driver, or bus driver. If your livelihood depends on your driver’s license and clean driving record, a DUI conviction may result in more than the inconvenience of fines or probation; you may lose your job. If your case has particularly high financial stakes, you should use a DUI lawyer to advocate for you.

2. You Dispute the Charges

How was the evidence of DUI collected? Did you consent to a blood test or breathalyzer? Did the readings appear accurate for the circumstances? A DUI lawyer will advise you on how to plead. They will also raise all relevant questions about accuracy and evidence, and may argue for reduced or dismissed charges.

3. This Isn’t Your First DUI

If you have any prior convictions for DUI, the consequences for your current charges may be substantially increased. This may include larger fines, driver’s license suspension, and even jail. An experienced DUI lawyer has the knowledge and skills to get the best possible outcomes for your specific case.

4. Someone Was Injured or Killed

If you were involved in an accident and someone was injured or killed, you need a dedicated lawyer on your side. A lawyer will assert all applicable defenses, and will work hard to make sure that any potential criminal liability is limited by the evidence and the facts of the case. They will also advise you throughout the investigation, advocate for you at trial if necessary, and protect your rights.

5. You Want to Make a Plea Bargain

In some cases, a DUI conviction may be inevitable. Perhaps the evidence is indisputable, or you have already admitted guilt. Even in those circumstances, the district attorney may be open to a plea bargain. Working with a lawyer is the most effective way to propose and receive an acceptable deal that the court will approve.

The Best Decision to Protect Your Rights: Hire a DUI Lawyer

If you have been charged with DUI, it is important to get the legal support you need for the journey ahead. In many cases, a DUI lawyer may be able to successfully argue for reduced or dismissed charges, and thereby protect their client’s reputation, finances, and freedom.

Do you need an experienced DUI attorney? Contact Skinner Law Firm at (610) 436-1410 or online today to schedule your initial consultation and learn more.

Article Author

Michael J. Skinner, the founder of Skinner Law Firm LLC, is a former prosecutor with the Chester County District Attorney’s Office.

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