When an individual is charged with DUI, they need a knowledgeable and experienced drunk driving lawyer who will fight for their rights. An attorney can help them get the best possible outcome for their case and help minimize the impact of a DUI conviction on their personal and professional lives.
A DUI conviction can lead to a license suspension, fines and jail time. It can also ruin employment opportunities and cause difficulty finding future jobs. A skilled attorney may be able to have the DUI charge reduced to a misdemeanor or even dismissed. This is especially important if there was injury involved. A good DUI attorney will rebut the police officer’s testimony and evidence and present alternate and persuasive facts to the jury. For example, if an officer claims the driver’s eyes were bloodshot, an attorney can introduce evidence that the redness was due to lack of sleep, allergies or new contact lenses.
A good drunk driving lawyer will explain the penalties that a conviction can carry in New York State, including a maximum fine of $500 – $1,000, a six-month license suspension and up to one year in jail. A good DUI attorney will also help a client explore diversion programs and plea bargaining options.