subject: How To Face a San Diego DUI With An Attorney [print this page] If you are facing DUI charges, it can be a frightening and troubling time in your life. You are probably unsure what steps to take, since you have never previously face problems of this degree. Most likely you have had multiple thoughts run through your head, such as, Will I lose my license? How much is this going to cost?, and Will I be put in jail? These are all common questions to ask, and to have your questions answered correctly, a San Diego DUI attorney is the correct choice.
What you choose to do at this all-important time can greatly affect your future. Many wonder if it best if they go it alone, or hire an attorney to help them. When you take the time to consult with a San Diego DUI lawyer, you can find out everything you need to know about the whole DUI process. The prosecutors and police don't care whether you are confused or not, they just want you to plead guilty so they can move on to other cases.
For just about anyone facing a DUI charge, hiring an attorney is much better for them than not hiring one. If you are arrested for a DUI, this doesn't necessarily mean that you will lose your license, or be convicted in a court of law.
The first court date is known as an arraignment, and this is where the charges against you are read, so you are fully aware of the charges you are facing. You have to make a plea; typically "not guilty" is the plea that is recommended. If you do not have representation, you will be asked by the judge if you would like to use a public defender. If so, one will be appointed to you if you qualify, and they will very briefly review your case, because they are overwhelmed with cases every day. You should also keep in mind that if you are without a lawyer, and do not schedule a hearing with the DMV within ten days of your arrest, your license will be suspended.
This is exactly where having a knowledgeable San Diego DUI Attorney will make a big difference in your case. They have the time and resources to meticulously review your case, and understand how to get the best possible decision for you.
Since there can be a great amount at stake for you when facing a DUI conviction, you need a lawyer that will do everything they can to get you the best possible outcome for your individual situation. People who have been convicted of DUI without an attorney can face a huge increase in their motorist insurance, and more. If you choose not to fight your DUI conviction, it can cost you in excess of $15,000, when you add in all of the court costs, impound fees, education classes, DMV fees, and restitution.
Without a successful San Diego DUI attorney protecting your rights, further problems that might result from a DUI conviction are issues attaining employment, trouble with security clearance, expulsion from college, and trouble in child custody cases.
Hopefully you never have to face these stressful issues, but some will, and having a professional San Diego DUI attorney on your side can greatly increase your chances of a preferred outcome.