Should I accept a DUI plea deal?

Posted by Lance T. Marshall Esq.Jan 20, 20170 Comments

It is not uncommon for someone who has been drinking to think irrationally. Alcohol is a popular drug because it lowers inhibitions and gives people a false sense of safety and security. Those under the influence often feel invincible. And unfortunately, when these occur, a person often is more likely to get behind the wheel.

Everyone knows of the tragedies that occur when someone gets behind the wheel while intoxicated. Law enforcement knows this as well, and often experiences the tragedies first hand when dealing with drunk driving accidents. State and local authorities have strict rules in place in an effort to curb drunk driving. They also take proactive measures to find drunk drivers on the road, including speed traps and road stops, often on holidays and following events where alcohol consumption is common.

It should come as no surprise then that according to the Bureau of Transportation, statistics show that almost 1.5 million people are arrested and charged with driving while under the influence. When you are charged with a drunk driving offense, you may be given the option to accept a plea deal. But should you?

A plea deal may save you in some regards; it is likely cheaper to not go to court with a private defender to fight the charges. But doing so is an admission of guilt, and will come with penalties that may wind up being very costly, and may affect your future down the road. There is no right answer when it comes to accepting a plea deal or tempting fate and fighting your case in court. While a non-guilty verdict is ideal, it does not always occur, and being found guilty will be even more costly than accepting a plea deal. It of course is best to not put yourself in such a situation by not drinking and driving, but if you do and you are caught and are facing a DUI charge, you may want to speak with a lawyer to determine your options and the best way to proceed.

Source: findlaw.com, “DUI Plea Bargains,” Accessed on Jan. 18, 2017