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Over the past several years, more and more states have taken big steps to crack down on drunk driving by imposing harsher penalties and lower standards for law enforcement. Even a seemingly minor misdemeanor drunk driving conviction can significantly impact your life in ways you may have trouble imagining. An experienced attorney can mitigate these consequences but only if they have expertise dealing with DUI cases.
“Expertise is critical when it comes to defending DUI cases,” said Matthew A. Martin, P.C., an attorney in Denver. “If an attorney isn’t well-versed in current DUI laws and technology, they may have trouble identifying many issues with your case that could help secure a dismissal or a lesser sentence.”
A good DUI attorney knows the important standards and rules, along with local court procedures and customs for the prosecution of driving while intoxicated. While an ordinary family law attorney may be able to draft pleadings; many are not up on the latest legal requirements for field sobriety tests, breath tests, blood draws or sobriety checkpoints.
The overall advantage of hiring a DUI attorney is that they thoroughly understand the rules and diverse consequences of a drunk driving arrest. From losing your license and paying large fines to jail time and a permanent mark on your record, a DUI is a major problem requiring an expert defense to avoid life-altering consequences.
“There are essentially two sides to a standard DUI charge: administrative and criminal proceedings,” said Martin. “It’s important to have an experienced DUI attorney who understands the ins and outs of both to help walk you through the process and ensure that you are well prepared.”
In many instances, an experienced DUI attorney may be able to cut down on the time you spend at court proceedings. They may even be able to attend a hearing on your behalf, so you won’t have to miss work or school. If you have a skilled DUI attorney, you may be able to secure a dismissal or acquittal. They may also be able to negotiate a diversion so you can keep your driving privileges.
“When you find yourself the target of a DUI charge, your DUI attorney can make all the difference,” said Martin. “A skilled DUI attorney will work to reduce the impact on your long-term driving record and improve your chances of keeping auto insurance while reducing your long-term insurance costs.”
According to estimates from Quote Wizard by Lending Tree, if your attorney can get a first-time DUI charge dropped or reduced, it could save you as much as $4,000 on car insurance alone. According to Martin, this can be especially important for people who already have higher rates due to existing incidents.
“If you already have other incidents on your record, such as speeding accidents or tickets, you are probably paying higher insurance rates,” said Martin. “Adding a DUI to your driving record will only raise your rates more. Having more than one stain on your record also puts you at a higher risk of having your insurance coverage canceled altogether. That’s why it’s so important to do everything in your power to minimize the impact of a DUI charge.”
A good DUI attorney can also present an effective case to the Colorado motor vehicle department/bureau on any potential license suspension hearings. They will know which particular defenses carry weight, and which don’t. They can also leverage their experience and expertise to present your case more persuasively and effectively than you or a family attorney.
“A DUI charge can have a catastrophic impact on a person’s life,” said Martin. “Even if you are ultimately able to get the case dismissed, you are likely to face real consequences that could affect your income, career, relationship, and more. An experienced DUI attorney can ensure a faster, more efficient resolution which can help you avoid these issues and mitigate any destructive consequences, so you can get back to your life.”
About Matthew A. Martin, P.C.
Providing a quarter of a century of criminal attorney representation, Matthew A. Martin, P.C. is one of Denver’s premier criminal defense attorneys and DUI defense lawyers.
Leveraging years of expertise and experience, our firm works aggressively to tirelessly and effectively defend clients who have been accused of felonies, DUIs or misdemeanors. If you, a friend or relative has been charged with a crime, please contact us immediately to discuss your case.
