If you’ve just been arrested for a DUI, you definitely have a lot of questions racing through your mind. You may be extremely concerned about the possible repercussions of being found guilty of DUI. One of the first questions you might have is whether or not you should hire a DUI attorney now or wait. The answer is simple: Contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 now to request a free legal consultation and get the help you need.
Important factors that affect DUI convictions
DUI is a crime, and even a first violation can result in harsh fines, license suspensions, and mandatory class attendance. You should always make every effort to prevent a DUI conviction throughout the duration of your case.
You should be even more concerned about a conviction if this is your second or any other subsequent DUI. You could be facing significant jail time depending on the specifics of your case, especially if there are any aggravating elements.
What a DUI arraignment is for
An arraignment is the initial stage in any DUI case. Many people are unaware of what occurs at an arraignment and believe that this is your chance to establish your innocence or otherwise get the charges against you dropped. However, a DUI arraignment is in no way like that.
You will learn about the criminal accusations that have been brought against you, your rights under the US Constitution, and the status of your bail (including whether you qualify for bail, how much you will have to pay, etc.) at your arraignment. Attending the arraignment is crucial because it is the first step in any DUI case. A warrant for your arrest will be issued right away if you fail to show up for your arraignment.
Entering a plea of not guilty
This is the first chance you’ve had to plead in your case. “Not guilty” is the default plea in most circumstances. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you believe the DUI accusation against you should be dropped. A “not guilty” plea just offers you the chance to consult with a defense attorney, explain your side of the story, and negotiate for a lighter punishment even in the event of a conviction.
Entering a guilty plea
On the other hand, you won’t have the chance to work with a defense attorney at all if you enter a plea of “guilty” during your arraignment. A judge will decide on a sentencing in your case right away after receiving your case. He or she might impose the harshest punishment possible without ever learning any crucial details about your case. Your lawyer won’t be able to negotiate a lesser punishment, assist you in avoiding jail time, lower fines, or use any other strategies to stop the application of the worst penalties possible in your case.
Should I hire a lawyer for my DUI arraignment?
Now for the answer to the main query: You must unquestionably have legal representation at your DUI arraignment. Call 714-760-4088 or send an email to dchambers@clfca.com to schedule a free consultation with Southern California’s top DUI lawyer, Dan Chambers of Chambers Law Firm, before your DUI arraignment. He will there provide you with individualized legal counsel on your particular DUI case.
Having a knowledgeable DUI attorney on your side from the beginning will help you avoid the frequent pitfalls of DUI trials. Make a call to Chambers Law Firm right away to arrange your no-cost appointment.
