If you have been charged with a DWI in Minneapolis or the surrounding area, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure about what your options are, or what your rights are in this situation. One of the most important things to do after being arrested for a DWI is to contact a DWI defense lawyer. In fact, you have the right to consult legal counsel before you say anything to law enforcement authorities. Consulting a lawyer can be vital during this time for several reasons. Here are the primary reasons to consult an attorney as soon as possible after being charged with a DWI.
Have Someone By Your Side
The fact is that many people assume that they do not need a DWI attorney, and that it would be best to go through this process alone. However, DWI cases can be very complicated and overwhelming, and without a lawyer you will have no one on your side looking out for your best interest. By consulting an attorney you will ensure that you do not have to go through this difficult time alone, that you have someone using the law to your benefit, and that you have someone who is there to ensure that your rights are protected at each step of the process.
Help The Process Go Smoother
Due to the complexity of DWI cases, it is generally a good idea to have legal counsel on your side so that you have someone to make the process go smoother. Rather than being in the dark about what your next steps are, your attorney will be able to walk you through this process and explain what is expected of you along the way. Your attorney will also be able to present you with your options and can help you to make informed, educated decisions; whereas without an attorney, you may be shooting in the dark trying to figure out what to do next.
They Can Explore Your Options
An attorney can also help you to explore options that you may not have realized that you had. For instance, while being charged with a DWI often leads to your license being revoked, your attorney may be able to work to get your license reinstated. If you have work or school commitments and no other viable transportation option, you may be allowed to drive in specific circumstances.
They Can Help Lessen Your Punishment
A DWI lawyer may also be able to negotiate a lesser punishment for you. Without a lawyer the court may try to make an example of you and give you the most severe punishment possible; however, a lawyer can work to get you a more moderate punishment. Depending and your criminal history and individual circumstances, your lawyer may be able to help you avoid jail time altogether. Your lawyer may even be able to prove missing evidence, or that your rights were violated in some way, which can help you receive a minimal sentence. While every case is unique, you will have the best chances of receiving a less severe punishment if you have a DWI defense lawyer on your side.
After being charged with a DWI it may seem like you have no options available to you and that you must accept the charges you have been presented with. The fact is that there are a lot of variables that can determine the severity of your punishment and whether or not you may be eligible to have your punishment lessened. This is why it is critical to consult a DWI attorney as soon as possible after you are arrested. Contact us to learn more about what your next steps are after being charged with a DWI as well as to find out how we can help you during this difficult time.
The information presented in this article is not considered legal advice. Please contact our law office to speak to an attorney about your case.