Facing conviction for driving while under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs in Martinsburg, Charles Town, or Berkeley Springs WV is an extremely stressful experience, especially when you feel that you are not guilty of the charges. Fortunately, you have the right to hire a DUI attorney to defend you. Our team at The Riddell Law Group is available now to help you build a defense against the impaired driving charges.
Your Lawyer Knows the Court System
Going to court can be overwhelming. While you might have no idea how to act or what to say, your lawyer will advise you in these matters to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Additionally, your lawyer understands how to research your arrest to determine whether the police officer who pulled you over completed testing correctly as well as informed you of your rights. This information is essential to argue for dismissal of your charges or at least a reduced penalty.
Make Sure You Work with an Experienced and Tough Negotiator
It is understandable that you want to attain a Martinsburg, WV lawyer right away and it is indeed the right thing to do. However, you do not want to rush the process of interviewing potential defense attorneys. Hiring someone who does not know how to negotiate aggressively on your behalf or argue the charges against you in court means that you are more likely to suffer consequences such as jail time, fines, and loss of your driver’s license. If you have considered representing yourself, know that some prosecutors will not even negotiate with DUI defendants who do not have a lawyer present.
Arguing for Dropped or Reduced Charges
When a prosecutor brings a DUI case against you in West Virginia, he or she must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. It is never up to you to prove your innocence. Your attorney from our Martinsburg, WV law firm will research and present every possible defense to the charges against you.
Successfully arguing a procedural defense is one of the most common ways that West Virginia courts throw out DUI cases against our clients. For example, the arresting police officer may not have read your Miranda rights or administered a breathalyzer test correctly. It’s also possible that he or she had no legal reason to pull you over in the first place. Whatever the situation, we will investigate all legitimate defenses and present evidence to support them in court.
It is Up to Your Lawyer to Track Important Deadlines
A DUI case often requires the filing of multiple court motions, each of which has a specific deadline. If you miss one of them, such as requesting video footage of your arrest, you will not be able to obtain it in enough time for your court hearing. Our DUI attorneys have many years of court experience and will be certain to file the necessary motions in a timely manner. This is yet one more reason why working with an experienced DUI defense attorney matters to your outcome.
Your Attorney May Be Able to Get Your Conviction Expunged
Having a conviction of DUI on your criminal record can affect your employment and housing opportunities as well as your insurance rates and credit rating for several years. If you already have a conviction, consider working with a qualified attorney to seek expungement. West Virginia has specific criteria you must meet for eligibility. Your attorney will help you understand this and then assist you with removing the conviction from your record. A DUI lawyer can provide you with many services you cannot do for yourself. Attempting to represent yourself could be gambling with your future.
Request Your Free Legal Consultation Today
We understand this is an extremely anxious and vulnerable time for you. The sooner you secure legal counsel, the better your chances of beating your DUI charge. Please contact The Riddell Law Group in Martinsburg, WV today to request your free initial consultation.