Many individuals that have been charged with DUI may look at the charges as difficult or even impossible to challenge. For that reason, many people facing this situation may actually forgo representation by an attorney. However, if someone is facing a DUI charge, the most important thing they can do is hire an attorney in Burlington, VT.
When Consulting with an Attorney Is All That Is Needed
There are times where an attorney may not be able to help much. Situations where a person is charged with DUI for the first time and no injuries resulted from the DUI may not require a lawyer. Typically, the lightest sentence will be imposed, whether a person has an attorney or not.
In these situations, it might not be a bad idea to consult with an attorney. The legal ramifications of this type of DUI are fairly basic, but here’s not a great deal a DUI attorney can do in these instances.
When Courtroom Representation Is Required
In cases where a person has been arrested for DUI in the past or they have a criminal record, even if there are no extenuating circumstances, having representation by an attorney may help. In some instances, an attorney can challenge the legality of the reasons for the police stopping the individual, which inevitably led to a DUI charge. In some cases, rare as they may be, an attorney can even challenge the validity of a field sobriety test or a breathalyzer test.
Not Every Situation Is the Same
In situations where someone has been injured or even killed, having an attorney may help plea bargain with the prosecuting attorney. Every situation is different and not every plea-bargain initiative works, but it is better to mount a defense than to acquiesce.
A DUI attorney in Burlington, VT is essential for anyone facing a DUI charge. Whether it’s direct representation or counseling before a court date, it is important to have legal services at your disposal. To learn more about these and other criminal law services, you may want to contact Jason J. Sawyer, Attorney & Counselor at Law.
