Posted on June 5, 2010.
Why do you need a DUI Lawyer qualified DC while driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) is considered a very serious offense in Washington DC and the outcome of any court cases may have wide ranging implications. It is therefore important that if you face a charge of driving while impaired that you are looking to hire a qualified majority, DC DUI lawyer to represent you.
To determine if a driver is DUI on the results of a serious disease testing. First, the policeman who stops a car must have a reason to suspect the driver of being under the influence, they may have observed driving erratically, can smell of alcohol on their breath or the driver appears to be compromised . They may then be asked to perform a series of field sobriety tests results which may give the officer enough to stop the driver suspected of impaired driving.
There then follows an alcohol test will determine the level of alcohol in the blood at the time. The minimum allowed is 0.08% above all this will result in a charge of DUI is given. Drivers do not consent to this test, but they should be warned that the refusal to provide a sample may lead to new civil charges being brought and they can face having their license suspended for one year. Refusal to provide a breath sample or blood may also be submitted to the court as an admission of guilt.
Hiring an experienced DUI lawyer DC will give you the best possible chance to obtain the lowest possible sentence given the circumstances of your case. Your first meeting may be free and you should use it to first explain your situation, understand the charges against you and the legal process you are facing. It is also important that you find from the lawyer at their experience, they only deal with cases if they are DUI and one to represent you or whether they will pass to someone else.
Typical sentences for DUI cases in Washington DC range from fines of $ 300 to $ 10,000 and prison sentences of up to 25 days. There is also the possibility to have an ignition interlock equipped vehicle in the defendant's preventing them from starting the vehicle unless their breath without alcohol.
A good DUI lawyer DC also explain the likely outcome of the court case. Offenders first time in DC have the opportunity to participate in a DUI diversion program that the success can lead to the accusation of being struck from the record. For those with previous convictions for impaired driving penalties are more severe especially if the BAC is very high in these cases finding a good DUI lawyer is always desirable.
