Each year, Nashville police crack down on DUI enforcement over the holidays, and 2016 was no different. If you are one of the many people who were charged with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, then you are probably wondering if you should fight the charges or just plead guilty.
Many people make the mistake of pleading guilty to DUI charges because they don’t think they can win their case. The bottom line is that all DUI charges should be challenged with the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
You don’t know what you don’t know
In many cases, it takes a lawyer with years of experience to look at your situation and determine whether or not you have a valid defense. Because you are not trained in criminal law, you don’t know if there is a defense available to you.
There could be problems with the traffic stop, the breath or blood test, or even the way the officer read you your rights. Any of these things could potentially lead to a not guilty verdict or the charges being dropped.
The stakes are too high to just plead guilty
Pleading guilty to a DUI will affect your life for many years to come.
You not only face jail time but also having your driver’s license suspended, being forced to take an alcohol treatment course, losing a CDL (commercial driver’s license), a major increase in insurance premiums, and significant fines. Additionally, pleading guilty means a permanent criminal record, which can affect future housing and job opportunities.
For all of these reasons, it is wise to talk to an experienced criminal defense lawyer any time you are charged with a DUI — no matter if it is your first or tenth time being in trouble with the law — and no matter if you think you have a good defense or not.
Let me, Tommy Overton, look at your case and help you figure out the best defense possible. Put my 28 years of experience to work for you.
