You might think a drunk driving charge is no big deal, but you need a DUI attorney more desperately than you know. Just because this offense is relatively common, it is still a serious crime. Having this blemish on your criminal record can change your life in ways you might not understand until it happens to you. You need a professional legal representative in your court for a slew of good reasons.
Insurance Rates
One of the reasons you need to hire a DUI attorney is to save money on future insurance premiums. The premiums you are charged depend on a variety of factors. Insurers take into account: your driving record, your age, what type of car you drive, and whether you’ve been charged with any sort of crime. Once you’ve been charged with operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol, your rates will go the roof. Not only that, your policy might be cancelled because you’ll be classified as a big risk.
Your Career
Many employers perform background checks on potential employees as a matter of course. They want to make sure they’re hiring workers who are reliably, trustworthy, and competent. In your background check, your employer might look into your credit score, your criminal record, and investigate your character by interviewing your references. If they see a driving-under-the-influence charge on your record, they might not hire you. A DUI attorney can help you keep this blemish off your record, which may better your chances of being successful on your future career path.
Your Relationships
If you are found guilty of driving while intoxicated, this can tarnish your image and reputation with various relationships. If your spouse or partner has been hounding you to give up alcohol, being arrested for this offense is going to complicate your relationship with this loved one. If you are a parent, your kids may lose respect for you or follow suit, thinking it’s okay to drink and drive. A DUI attorney can help you retain your freedom or perhaps enter rehab and counseling for substance abuse. With your legal guide’s help, you might be able to turn this corner successfully and keep your relationships intact.
If you’ve been pulled over by the police because you were driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you need a professional legal advocate in your court. Even though this is a relatively common occurrence in today’s society, it is still a serious offense that can complicate your life in various ways. Don’t try to represent yourself in court. Get a skilled DUI attorney on your side in order to keep your insurance rates low, your career on track, and your relationships from disintegrating. Your future depends on making the right choice and hiring a savvy defender.