Getting arrested and charged with a DUI is one of the most frightening and embarrassing things that can happen to a person. Having a DUI on your record can cause issues with your employment as well as your reputation. In addition, you could be facing fines, jail time, and the potential loss of your license. When you are in the midst of this chaos, you have to remember that it will be much easier if you have help from a Bay Area DUI lawyer who has experience with cases like yours. You need to know and understand the rights that you have in these cases.
First, you have the right to be represented in court. While some people choose to act as their own attorney, it is not a good idea. When you’ve been charged for driving under the influence, you will find that working with a Bay Area DUI attorney is the best thing that you can do. It will give you a much better chance of coming out on top in your case. They can help you find ways to beat the charges, or to have them reduced in many cases.
When you are facing a DUI charge, you have the right to determine how your case is heard. You could have it heard in front of a jury, or you could have it heard only by the judge who will then make a decision on your case. Your attorney will let you know which of these options will work the best in your case.
In addition, you have the right to question the accuser. In some instances, the arrest procedure may not have been handled appropriately. Your attorney can then use this information when they question the accuser – the officer who arrested you. For example, if they arrested you without conducting any sobriety tests, it could call into question the procedure they used to determine whether you were drunk.
Just because you were arrested for a DUI, it does not mean that you do not have any rights. You can get in touch with a Bay Area DUI attorney who can let you know more about your rights, as well as how to proceed with the case.
Never try to act as your own attorney in a DUI case. The potential penalties you face are far too serious to try to tackle it on your own.