Why Do I Need a DUI Attorney?

A DUI attorney does more than simply represent a driver in court.  A good DUI attorney helps the client understand his or her rights from the moment of arrest to the final resolution of the case.  While it is technically possible to represent yourself in a DUI case, you are often more likely to experience a positive outcome if you have the help and support of an attorney like those at the Oswalt Law Group in Phoenix. Here are some things your DUI attorney can do for you that are difficult, if not impossible, to do yourself:

• Educate you on the law. It is very important that you have a complete understanding of the law regarding DUI, criminal charges and civil rights in Arizona before representing yourself in court.  It is not enough to simply understand the law that governs your individual charge; you must have a more global understanding of how each law connects with others.
• Network with prosecutors. A good criminal defense attorney does not simply represent his or her clients; the attorney also spends time networking and building relationships with those on the other side of the aisle.  Despite what many people believe, adversarial relationships in court do not mean that attorneys cannot have healthy respect for each other.  Many criminal defense attorneys have worked with prosecutors on multiple cases and have built a professional relationship that allow them to negotiate their cases effectively.
• Plead your case. When it comes to defending your case in court, a criminal defense attorney can usually give you much better service than you could give yourself.  The rules of the various court systems in Arizona are complicated, and although you have the right to defend yourself, it may be very difficult for you to do so defectively.  If your case must go to trial, having a criminal defense attorney on your side can mean the difference between a well-argued case and one that places you in jeopardy of a negative outcome.

In Arizona, any DUI charge must be taken seriously.  The consequences for a conviction of even a first-time DUI are extremely harsh, and can include prison time, probation, fines and fees and other penalties as well as the loss of your driver’s license.  Contact the criminal defense attorneys at the Oswalt Law Group in Phoenix for help if you have been charged with any type of DUI.