Being charged with a DUI can be scary, particularly if you do not know the process and your rights. You may have so many thoughts, such as can a DWI get dismissed? There are also a lot of misconceptions about these charges that make handling them even worse. It is essential that you know the truth and dispels some of these misconceptions.
You Were Charged So You Must Be Guilty
Most people assume that if the DUI charge has been brought against them, they must be guilty of the crime. It is not always the case, and there are known flaws in blood alcohol testing. Human error will also need to be taken into account as police officers can make mistakes that lead to false readings.
It is important to remember that the burden of proof is on the prosecution. You are innocent until they can prove you are guilty without any reasonable doubt. Of course, it can be hard to determine if the proof provided is correct, and that’s why you should hire a lawyer to represent you.
It Is Not A Serious Charge
There are things you should know after your first DUI. A lot of people make the mistake of thinking that a DUI charge is a minor offense. These people generally do not fully realize the implications and penalties attached to these charges. Many of the people who have this attitude are first time offenders who believe they will receive a warning or fine.
Some people also think that these charges are similar to traffic tickets because they both relate to your vehicle. It is not true because a DUI is a criminal offense while a traffic ticket is not. A traffic ticket is a minor infraction and a simple fine.
The potential consequences of DUI costs can be much higher. You’ll pay a high amount of money or will face jail. They can also revoke your license, depending on the details of the charge. If you have multiple offenses, there is a high chance your penalties will become worse. You must take this charge seriously.
Your Life Is Over If You Are Convicted
While you need to take these charges seriously, you should not swing to the other side of the spectrum and believe that your life is over if convicted. If you have taken these charges seriously and addressed it correctly, you will be able to get through it. A good lawyer will be able to help with this. You must also know steps you can take after a DUI Arrest so you can avoid future problems.
For many first-time offenders, being charged can be a wake-up call. If you are in this category, you need to learn your lesson from your experience. The repercussions are worse the more times you are charged, and you could face life-changing penalties if you do not correct your actions.
You Do Not Need A DUI Lawyer
Another misconception is that you can handle these charges on your own and will not need to hire a lawyer. Without the help of a lawyer, you may not be able to contest the proof provided to the court. It can result in you being punished for a crime you did not commit.
Hiring a lawyer is important, but you should not hire any lawyer you find. It is recommended that you hire a lawyer who has experience with DUI cases. They will have a better understanding of what to look for and how to negotiate a plea deal if you need one.
There are many misconceptions about DUI charges that can lead to a lot of trouble. Not taking the charges seriously or assuming that you are guilty because you are charged should be avoided. In Houston DWI lawyers are well-trained so you can trust them completely. You should also avoid thinking that your life is over if you are convicted.