Pleading Guilty to DUI
In your arraignment, you will have to choose to plead either guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Many people jump at the chance of pleading guilty in exchange for a reduced charge. Many lawyers will push pleading guilty as your best option so they can make money without having to go to trial. However, pleading guilty has many consequences that may make it worse than going to trial. Do not plead guilty unless it is your only option. Ask for a second option and educated yourself before committing to such a serious decision.
If you or someone you know has is thinking about pleading guilty to a DUI, then contact a local DUI lawyer today.
When to Plead Guilty
In most cases you will want to plead not guilty. However, your lawyer may be able to reach a compromise. You will plead guilty and the charge against you is either reduced to a less serious charge such as reckless driving or eliminated altogether. It also helps you to avoid additional charges that you may have faced had you gone to trial.
When Not to Plead Guilty
Many times, lawyers will attempt to have you plead guilty assuring you that it is the best deal you will get. However, you can plead guilty without paying a lawyer. There are circumstance where trial would be preferable, as you might be able to have the charges against you dropped altogether if you can prove there was no probable cause. Don’t let your lawyer take your money without working for it. Talk it over, push the subject, ask for a second opinion if you must. Make sure it is the best option for you before you do it.
Pleading Guilty to a Felony
Pleading guilty to a felony is a mistake. There are many severe consequences, such as:
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No longer being able to vote
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Unable to own or possess fire arms
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Finding a job may be more difficult if not impossible
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You will be ineligible for government benefits
Pleading Guilty to a Misdemeanor
It is recommended that you do not plead guilty unless there is absolutely no preferable alternative. Although misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, there are still repercussions for pleading guilty to one. Some undesirable effects of pleading guilty to a misdemeanor DUI charge are:
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High car insurance rates
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Loss of driving privileges
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Fines
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Prison sentence
Get Legal Help
Pleading guilty to a DUI can have both positives and negatives. Each case is different and so it is important to get the opinion of a professional. Contact a DUI lawyer in your area today and ask for a free case evaluation. There are severe consequences for pleading guilty. Do not be afraid to ask for a second opinion if your lawyer is insisting that you plead guilty.