Motorists accused of driving under the influence (DUI) offenses face numerous potential penalties. Depending on the circumstances, jail time, driver’s license suspension and fines are all likely. Additionally, the accused person has to live their life with a DUI conviction on their record, which could hold them back in many areas of their life. Employers, landlords and educational institutions may learn about their prior mistakes when conducting background checks.
There are many potential defense strategies that people can use when accused of drunk driving. Lawyers can try to eliminate evidence and seek the dismissal of charges. In scenarios where seeking the dismissal of the charges is not a realistic goal, negotiating a plea bargain might be a viable strategy. Those who don’t want to go to trial or who face strong cases may want to consider partnering with an attorney to negotiate a favorable plea bargain.
Plea bargains are common for a reason
A large percentage of criminal cases result in a plea deal negotiated between the prosecutor and the defendant, usually through their defense attorney. In some cases, it is possible to negotiate an arrangement where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser offense instead of the initial DUI charge.
Frequently, the lesser offense is reckless driving. While there are still penalties imposed and a criminal record for the defendant, the record is less serious, as are the penalties. A first-time DUI conviction could lead to up to 30 days in jail, over $900 in fines and charges and a six-month driver’s license suspension. While reckless driving is still a misdemeanor crime, the penalties it carries are lower. Drivers could serve up to 30 days in jail and may need to pay up to $200 in fines.
Negotiating a plea to a lesser offense is one of several viable strategies available to those trying to minimize the impact of DUI charges. People can protect their driving privileges, limit the penalties they face and reduce the severity of the criminal record that results from their plea arrangement.
The best approach for handling allegations of drunk driving depends on an individual’s unique circumstances. Reviewing the state’s case with a skilled legal team can be a good starting point for evaluating whether a plea bargain is an appropriate response to a pending DUI charge.
