When you’ve been accused of driving under the influence, police and prosecutors will probably try to convince you that their case against you is airtight and there’s no use fighting the charges. However, this usually isn’t the case, as criminal law provides a variety of defenses to those accused of potentially serious charges. Here are a few reasons you should speak with an attorney before pleading guilty to a DUI.

3 Reasons to Hire a DUI Attorney

1. The Penalties Are Severe

A DUI is not like any other traffic offense, with consequences that could impact your life in unexpected ways. In Wisconsin, for example, first-time offenders are subject to fines between $150 and $300, plus a $346 surcharge, and will lose their licenses for six to nine months. If you had children in the car or injured someone, the charges fall under criminal law, with even more harsh penalties.

2. An Attorney Will Protect Your Rights

Law enforcement officers are required to follow strict guidelines when collecting evidence and questioning suspects. If they fail to do so, will you be able to tell that your rights have been violated? A criminal law attorney can review the circumstances of your arrest and challenge any evidence that was improperly collected.

3. They’ll Identify Your Legal Options

When you’re facing serious charges, figuring out your next move can be a daunting task. Based on their extensive legal experience with criminal law, a good lawyer can identify your legal options and explain the most likely outcome of each. Whether they recommend going to trial or accepting a plea deal, you can do so knowing you’ve made the best possible choice.

Whether you’ve been charged with a DUI or another offense, the legal team at LaRowe Gerlach Taggart LLP have the skills and expertise to provide the zealous defense you deserve. For over 35 years, they’ve been standing up for the rights of defendants throughout the Reedsburg, WI area, building a reputation for dedication and high-quality service. Call (608) 524-8231 today to schedule a consultation, or visit them online to learn more about their criminal law services.