Being arrested for a DUI can be a scary time, but what you think you know about them can be drastically different from reality.
Clearing up some of the misconceptions can not only help to put your mind at rest, but it can also help you to focus on what your legal options are.
Here are some of the misconceptions about DUI cases that we often hear.
A DUI Is Only A Minor Offense
This is something you might be wondering if this is your first charge. You should know that many people take DUIs very seriously. Because of this, they are sometimes treated all the same.
If you think that you’ll get off easy, you may be wrong.
Not only can you have your license revoked, which will drastically change your circumstances, but you can also end up paying a hefty fine, and in some cases, you can end up in jail.
If You Are Over The Limit, You Are Guilty
This isn’t always the case.
A skilled lawyer can look at whether or not the test itself was flawed. For example, the officer might have used a breathalyzer that was not calibrated correctly, or you may not have been medically fit for testing.
The law office of Kevin Pauly will be able to take a look at your circumstances and find out if this, or any other conditions may have affected your test.
A DUI Is Similar To Getting a Parking Ticket
Some drivers think that the only result of a DUI is fine.
This is not correct, and the real results are often a lot more severe. A DUI can lead to a criminal conviction and as we mentioned before, jail time.
If Convicted, I Am A Criminal
Often, drivers who commit a DUI offense are ordinary citizens who would never usually run the risk of breaking the law, yet they have made a mistake.
For a lot of people, it will be the only offense they ever commit. Although it will go down on your criminal record, driving after drinking is only legal if done within the amounts specified by the law. So, even if you have been caught going too far, you can learn from your mistakes.
My Life Will Drastically Change
This isn’t always true.
Depending on the circumstances, you may still retain your right to drive. If this isn’t the case, you should know that you will still be able to live your life, and most people adapt to changes.
A DUI should serve as a lesson to be learned, and one that you can come back from. If you have an ongoing problem that has caused you to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while driving, then a DUI can serve as an opportunity to change your life for the better.
Speak to an experienced DUI attorney to discuss your unique circumstances and see how their expertise can help.
