Driving under the influence is regarded as a criminal offense in Arizona. So, DUI charges are dealt with in criminal court. While you have a right to represent yourself in court, hiring a DUI attorney increases the chances of a better outcome. In fact, the majority of defendants in Scottsdale, AZ either higher an exclusive lawyer or are represented by a public defender. Since DUI law is complicated and continuously updated, and each case is unique, hiring a DUI attorney in Scottsdale Arizona increases the chances of a favorable outcome.

Why You Need a DUI Lawyer

Since driving under the influence in Arizona is a serious crime, you will need a legal representative even if it’s your first offense.  A DUI lawyer with experience in defending both misdemeanor and felony cases will help you avoid severe penalties like heavy fines, time in the country jail, or your driver’s license being suspended.

The potential consequences of the first DUI offense can be harsher if it is classified as Extreme DUI or Super Extreme DUI. In such as case, an aggravated DUI comes with mandatory prison time. A DUI lawyer will represent you in a criminal court to prevent adverse outcomes of your case by ensuring all facts are considered.

It is important to have a lawyer who will go through every detail of a DUI case to build a defense. The offense will usually go on your criminal and driving record, and a single mistake can impact your life for years. You may end up with a tarnished reputation, higher insurance premiums, and limited career opportunities. Being convicted of a DUI can also result in a strained relationship with friends and family and harm your immigration status if you are a non-citizen.

With a lot at stake, the need for an experienced and competent legal representation cannot be overlooked. You will need a DUI attorney to help you navigate the criminal justice system, ensuring that your rights, freedom, and future are protected.

How an Experienced DUI Attorney Helps

If you are facing a DUI case in Arizona, you will need an attorney to protect your rights and advocate for your interests from the moment it opens until the end. The lawyer will improve the chances of the case closing with a favorable outcome in several ways:

• Challenge Your DUI Arrest: The lawyer will check for any procedural flaws in your arrest to verify that the officer who arrested you has reasonable suspicion to call for a traffic stop. Was there any evidence of driving impairment such as sudden swerving, erratic driving, or speeding?
• Challenge Evidence: A DUI lawyer knows how to challenge the evidence being produced in court. They will investigate the case for any inconsistencies, pointing out inconclusive evidence such as field sobriety tests. This ensures that any weak links in the prosecution’s case are located for a better outcome on your side.
• Work to Reduce the DUI Charge: Sometimes a DUI conviction becomes inevitable and you will need an experienced DUI attorney to help reduce the charges. The lawyer could work to have the prosecutor reduce the charge during the court process. They could help in reducing the charges from a felony to a misdemeanor, softening the consequences that you will face, including reduced jail time and fines.
• Protect Your Driving Privileges: One of the major consequences to may face as a first offense Dui is license suspension. The police may take away your license during arrest and give you a temporary driving permit. You are then required to schedule a hearing with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) within 30 days to contest the suspension. A DUI lawyer can request the hearing on time and represent you, protecting your driving privileges throughout the process.
• Help Clean Up Your Record: Even after paying your penalties, your conviction is not automatically expunged so you can start fresh without a stain on your reputation. A DUI lawyer will guide you through petitioning to have your DUI conviction expunged if you are eligible.

Choose a Scottsdale DUI Lawyer You Can Trust

A DUI is a major concern in Scottsdale, Arizona because of the potential long-term consequences if convicted, even for a first-offense DUI. We highly recommend Schill Law Group for their excellent defense services and for going the extra mile in fighting for a favorable outcome. Not only will your mind be at ease during the entire process, but you will be working with a defense team that will guide you every step of the way.