Reasons to Work with a DUI Lawyer in Pittsburgh
July 18, 2016
You need a DUI lawyer in Pittsburgh if you have been stopped, arrested, and charged with a DUI. If you have been charged with one, there's a great deal of stress and uncertainty that can come along with the arrest. You will probably be worried about the penalties that could result if you are convicted and the consequences of having a DUI conviction on your record. In addition to this, there's a feeling of embarrassment as to how your family, friends, colleagues, and even your boss at work might respond to a DUI conviction.
This Mistake Can Cost You
I understand that very often a DUI, especially with a first-time offender, is a lapse in judgment or a simple mistake. Unfortunately, state laws can be extremely harsh in Pennsylvania when it comes to DUI convictions, which is why you need a DUI lawyer in Pittsburgh immediately after being arrested and charged with a DUI. There are severe and even harsh penalties that can be imposed upon you if you are convicted of a DUI. These can include fines, jail time, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device, substance abuse education and treatment, or even the loss of driving privileges.
Long-Term Consequences
You need a DUI lawyer in Pittsburgh if you have been charged with a DUI. Many people, often caught up in the confusion and stress of being arrested, do not take into account the long-term consequences of being convicted of a DUI in Pittsburgh. If you are convicted of a DUI, you will have to deal with that for the rest of your life. What this means is that once you are convicted of a DUI, it will go on your permanent record, which can be accessed by anybody looking into your background. Many employers today will perform a standard background check before they hire an employee, and in your case, your record with your DUI conviction will show up. This could cost you many opportunities in the future. It is highly recommended that you work with me, as your attorney, to limit the likelihood that your DUI charge will end up as a criminal conviction.
Your Options
While I cannot predict what the outcome of your case will be, there are options. In many cases, I can negotiate a plea bargain so that you can be convicted of a lesser charge like reckless driving. Other times, a DUI conviction is inevitable but I can negotiate so that you do not receive too harsh of penalties. In court, I will present a strong case in your defense and fight for the best possible outcome.
Planning Ahead
When meeting with you, I will thoroughly examine your case and find out the best way to prevent a DUI conviction. This is important to make sure that you deal with the least amount of potential penalties and if possible, ensure that your DUI does not go on your permanent record. Working diligently within the framework of the criminal justice system, I can approach the case in the most positive manner, getting you the best possible plea bargain deal if necessary, making sure that you are completely acquitted if possible, and ultimately reaching a resolution that is in your best interest. If you have been arrested and are being tried for a DUI, you need to pick up the phone and call my office to speak with a DUI lawyer in Pittsburgh immediately.
NOTE: This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.