Driving while intoxicated (DWI) and driving under the influence (DUI) are criminal offenses that can cause big trouble. A criminal defense attorney is one who knows the laws and the options available to someone arrested for these offenses. At the very least it is worthwhile to have a consultation with an attorney to learn what penalties you may be facing.
An attorney can help decide if you will need legal representation. The legal blood alcohol limit (BAC) in Pennsylvania is .08 and sentences can be more severe for drivers who are over that limit. A person who is in this situation, has had multiple counts of DUI/DWI, or who has caused injury to another person should certainly hire a criminal defense attorney.
A good attorney stays up to date on the changes in criminal law and knows how to handle all areas of a case. In the initial consultation, the attorney gathers all of the information and helps the client understand the case, his/her rights and the possible outcomes.
If you decide to hire a criminal defense attorney, he will then handle the administrative aspects of the case, from the paperwork to managing the scheduling of appearances. If you call him early in the case, he may be able to negotiate with law enforcement officers and other relevant personnel to have the charges reduced or even dismissed before trial. If your offense and the local law allows, he may be able to do so, or to obtain a lesser sentence for you, such as community service or probation. If the case does go to trial, your attorney will represent you throughout all of the hearings; he will prepare your defense, help select jury members, and find flaws in the process that may help your case. He can also petition for any evidence the prosecutors may have so that he can better defend you.
Having an experienced attorney on your side is reassuring, especially because he will have been through the experience many times and be familiar with both the process and the courts, the judges, the other attorneys and the clerks and administrators who manage the cases.
If you decline the opportunity to hire an attorney, you may choose to represent yourself or be assigned a public defender. A public defender also knows the processes and can help you prepare your defense. Hiring your own attorney, however, allows you to find one that you feel comfortable with and confident about. In addition, a private attorney does not have the case load a public defender has; you can be assured you and your case will receive individual attention.
If you have been arrested for DUI or DWI, it makes sense to consult with a criminal defense attorney. A good attorney like William D. Schroeder Jr, can help you understand the charges against you and the possible consequences. He has over 30 years of experience helping people in Pennsylvania and knows how the court system works. You can count on William D. Schroeder, Jr. to make the process go as smoothly as possible and to obtain the best possible outcome. Call 215-822-2728 today for a consultation.