Refuting Some Incorrect Ideas About DUI Charges

If you are arrested and charged with driving under the influence, you could face a range of serious consequences. While this is an offense that should be treated seriously, there are many pieces of misinformation about these charges that could lead to mistakes or other issues as you attempt to defend yourself against this charge.

Myth: You Must Be Visibly Intoxicated To Be Tested For Driving Under The Influence

One of the common assumptions that individuals have when it concerns driving under the influence is that they will have to appear to be visibly intoxicated before they can be detained or questioned about it. However, it is actually possible for a police officer request individuals to submit for field testing whenever they suspect that they may be intoxicated. This can be due to the presence of the smell of alcohol on the person and their answers to questions.

Myth: Loss Of Your License Will Be The Only Penalty For A DUI

After being convicted of driving under the influence, a person will find that there is a range of penalties that they can face. While many people will assume that the loss of their license will be the most severe consequence of this charge, there are many other outcomes that can follow. For example, there will be a chance that the defendant could be sentenced to prison. Also, there can be expensive fines that will have to be paid, and substance abuse testing can be ordered. Once you are able to appreciate the full range of consequences that a DUI conviction can involve, you may better appreciate the need to mount a vigorous and thoughtful defense against these charges.

Myth: It Is Impossible To Successfully Contest A DUI Charge

There are some individuals that may simply plead guilty when they are charged with this offense due to the belief that they will be unable to contest or fight these charges, and this can lead to them simply agreeing to the first plea offer that is received. Yet, there are many different strategies that can be used to contest these charges. For example, it may be possible to argue that the equipment used to administer the breathalyzer test was not referring correctly. Those that lack a criminal history may find that their attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor to have the charge and sentencing reduced. By working to reduce these charges or to contest them with aggressive legal tactics, you should be better prepared to defend your rights against these criminal accusations.

Contact a lawyer like heath wilding for more information and assistance.