Hiring a Criminal Lawyer in Philadelphia for DUI and DWI Charges
The question of whether to hire a lawyer often looms large for anyone who is charged with DUI or DWI in Philadelphia. In the vast majority of DUI and DWI cases, it is important not only to hire an attorney but to hire a Criminal Lawyer in Philadelphia who has considerable experience in this area of the law. The state of Pennsylvania has some fairly tough laws for DUI and DWI, and this makes it essential that anyone with such a charge puts forward the right defense with the help of a Criminal Lawyer in Philadelphia.
The Criminal Lawyer in Philadelphia helps clients with any type of DUI or DWI, whether it is a first offense or a third offense. The first offense does not require any time in jail in the state of Pennsylvania; however, it can incur significant fines of $300 or more. If a person charged with DUI refused to take the chemical test, they will be ordered to get an Interlock Ignition Device on their vehicle. This device prevents the user from starting the vehicle until they are tested for alcohol.
For second or third DUI and DWI charges, the stakes are much higher. Upon conviction, the jail time may last up to six months, and the fines are as high as $2,500. With a second or third offense, the Interlock Ignition Device becomes mandatory, as does a drivers license suspension. The only way for an individual who has been accused can avoid the harshest of these penalties is to prove that they were innocent.
In the event that the Criminal Lawyer in Philadelphia advises against an innocent plea based upon airtight evidence, there may still be some room to bargain. The attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor to get the penalties and fines reduced as much as possible. While this is not a complete win, it can make a huge difference. Sometimes striking a deal with the prosecuting lawyer can make the difference between spending years in jail and spending a month or so in a rehab program. If the ultimate goal is to get home and back to the usual routine ASAP, an attorney is essential in any DUI or DWI case.
