They say that a DUI is just a minor offense, but still a criminal charge. My sister was charged with DUI here in Scottsdale, Arizona. She insisted on not hiring a lawyer because she thinks that it will cost her too much. Does she really need to hire a lawyer or not? Please help me.

Julia

Scottsdale, AZ

There are several reasons why your sister needs a qualified Scottsdale, Arizona DUI lawyer. The main reason is that a DUI lawyer knows your legal rights with regard to the specific charge against you. He/she would be able to help prevent your sister from self-incriminating herself or any other mistakes she is likely to make.

A good DUI lawyer would know how to defend your sister in court. She needs of a good DUI lawyer because they understand how to talk to juries, judges and prosecution.

The most common argument probably against hiring a DUI lawyer is that they are expensive, just like what your sister is thinking. Well, it is actually a valid point that any good DUI attorney is going to be expensive, but that is because of the value they provide.

In your sister’s situation, DUI lawyers actually work best for first time offenders. A good DUI lawyer could ensure that the fines and/or jail time will be as minimal as possible.

But remember that DUI lawyers are not miracle workers. They have to work with the particularities of your sister’s case. In the end, she’ll be glad she hired one.

I seriously don’t know what I have gotten into. I was stopped for DUI suspicion and registered a blood alcohol content level of above the legal limit. Now, I have a DUI case in my belt. What are the possible defenses that I can use to get out of the pit I’m in?

Gene

Chandler, AZ

An Arizona DUI is not an open and shut case. If you hire a good Arizona DUI lawyer, decisions can still be overturned. Remember that you are not presumed guilty when you are arrested for DUI. An expert DUI lawyer can put together a solid defense case that can protect you from your DUI charge.

An example is that if the arresting officer failed you to read you your Miranda rights that you have the right to remain silent and the right to a lawyer. In this case, the charge against you can either be dismissed or all statements made following the arrest can possibly be suppressed. It is very vital to tell your lawyer everything that the police officer did or said when you were arrested. Little details can help your lawyer build your case.

You lawyer can also prove that the officer had no reasonable cause to stop your vehicle in the first place. If your lawyer can argue that you were not in “actual physical control” of the car if you were not driving the vehicle when the officer stopped you, your case may be dismissed.

By seeking the help of an experienced lawyer who can protect you against the strictest tenets of the Arizona DUI law, you can lessen the negative impact of a DUI. But remember that serving time in jail for DUI is mandatory so don’t expect to avoid this regulation especially if you know that you were in fact driving under the influence. However, depending on the seriousness of your case, a good DUI lawyer can shorten your jail time and reduce your fines.