Drunk driving, although a misdemeanor offense for first time offenders, is one of the costliest crimes faced by defendants in terms of money. Though a single offense of drunk driving could result in incarceration, it rarely does. However, many offenders will soon realize the true cost of a dui charge.
The Real Costs of DUI Charges
Aside from the dui charge fine, court fees, and other legal costs, drivers face even further financial fallout from a dui charge. Insurance premiums will increase exponentially, if insurance carriers still carry a given policy following conviction. Additionally, probation costs and other alternative sentencing programs are notoriously expensive. The costs of a dui charge fine pale in comparison with those associated with using devices such as ignition interlocks or attending dui school. Furthermore, convictions of dui often lead to license suspension, or at the very least, a criminal charge on one’s license, which may jeopardize a defendant’s ability to earn future income. Clearly, drivers arrested for dui have quite a bit at stake before going to trial and should immediately reconsider any intention to make an automatic guilty plea.
Getting Legal Advice from a DUI Attorney
DUI charges, if handled by experienced attorneys, present numerous legal grounds for dismissal. Breathalyzer and blood test results are frequently ruled inadmissible, if even administered at the scene. In addition, breathalyzer and blood test results might not even be available if a defendant elected to refuse to submit. Other considerations, which an attorney could easily identify, may give defendant’s legal leverage for dismissal or downgrading of charges to non-criminal offenses through a guilty plea. Consulting with an attorney is essential to pursue any of these favorable outcomes to a dui arrest.