Can I Handle a DUI Case on My Own?

 Posted on August 24, 2018 in DUI/DWI

The decision to hire an attorneymay be difficult, but there are many instances where not hiring an attorney can be detrimental to your case. One type of charge that should be handled by an experienced attorney is driving under the influence (DUI). A DUI conviction can haveboth costly and devastating effects on your life.

In Illinois, a DUI charge resultswhen an individual isfound driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other impairing or intoxicating compounds. A personwho is found driving or in physical control of a vehicle whilehe or she hasa blood alcohol concentration of .08 or more will be charged with a DUI.

Consider the following reasons why you should consider hire a experienced DUI attorney to provide an aggressive defense to the court.

Provide an Aggressive Defense

Some individualsmaybelieve that if they have been charged with a DUI, they will therefore be convicteddue to theevidence from a breathalyzer test or blood test. This does not have to be the result. There areseveral defenses that can be applied to each case.

An DUI attorney will have the experience and capability of giving you appropriaterepresentationgiven the circumstances. Courtroom knowledge and practical experience can result in good news for your DUI charge, but this can onlyoccur if an attorney is hired to defend the case.

Multiple Offenses Result in Harsher Sentences

Much like any crime, penalties are harsher when offenses are more frequent. A second, third, or subsequent DUI offense in Illinois can bring about serious consequences. For some, the cost of an attorney is what keeps them from hiring an attorney. However, in a second or subsequent DUI case it is absolutely essential to hire an attorney. The penalties for a second offense increase significantly. An attorney canassist you in getting the best possible result for these charges.

Aggravated Offenses are Complex

A DUI charge is considered aggravated if others were injured or killed inan accident, or even if the charge is a repeat offense. Much like multiple offenses, aggravated offenses also carry harsher penalties.

We Can Help You Today

Whether you are a repeat offender or a first time offender, taking the time to speak to an experienced attorney could mean the difference between a harsh sentence or no sentence at all. Even if you are on the fence about hiring an attorney, there is no harm in scheduling a consultation to see how an attorney can help you in your legal battle. Dedicated Rolling Meadows criminal defense attorney Christopher M. Cosley is here to help you. Attorney Cosley knows that hiring an attorney is a big choice and wants to make that choice easy for you. Contact us today to set up a consultation.

Sources:

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a118.pdf

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=062500050K11-501