Get the Top 4 Questions for DWI/DUI Defense Lawyer Questions Answered

No one plans on a DUI or DWI charge. Mistakes happen. Or maybe you are innocent of what you were arrested for and look forward to the opportunity to prove it. Whatever the incident was, you are now facing charges that can be intimidating, to say the least. If you receive a DUI or DWI, it’s likely you’ll have questions and need real answers before knowing what to do next.

At Ellen Cronin Badeaux, we want to help you as best as possible. Our Amite, LA DUI/DWI defense lawyers can provide you with insights and direction for handling your charges. You have questions, we have answers! These are the questions we hear most often:

#1 Why did the police officer suspect I was driving intoxicated?

If an officer of the law saw you turning with a wide radius, straddling the center of the lanes, weaving, swerving, drifting, traveling much less than the posted speed limit, or following too closely, he or she believed you may be driving under the influence. These driving characteristics have been shown to be associated with a driver who is not sober.

#2 I wasn’t speeding! Doesn’t that matter?

Actually, speeding is not an indicator of impairment. Many police officers will say that it’s not unusual for a sober person to drive 10 mph over the posted speed limit late at night when traffic is light. An impaired person, however, will be driving slower than the posted speed limit, either because their coordination is off or because they’re trying not to get caught.

#3 What effect does a DUI/DWI conviction have on my record?

Nothing good! Most often, you will lose your ability to drive for a while. Beyond paying a fine and looking at jail time, a few of the other consequences of DUI/DWI conviction are:

• It can have an adverse effect on your employment, especially if driving is a major part of your work duties.
• It will require you to obtain special, more-costly insurance, and should you drop your insurance during the required period of coverage your driving privileges will be suspended.
• You could lose an educational opportunity, like a scholarship or acceptance.

Remember, the punishment for future DUI/DWI convictions will increase. That’s why it’s best to fight this charge.

#4 Do I need to hire a DWI defense lawyer?

Yes! If you have the means, you should hire your own legal representation and not rely on a public defender. They have many cases and often you won’t even meet them until your day in court. Your DUI/DWI is a serious matter, so it’s not a wise choice to go to court without an attorney who has the time and resources to dedicate to your case. Your privilege to drive, your freedom, your money, and your future employment options may hang in the balance.

None of this is going to be easy. With the right DWI/DUI attorney on your side, it won’t be impossible though either. Please reach out to us at 985-892-1955 to ask any further questions or to book time speaking directly with an attorney. We offer a free consultation to help ensure we’re the right attorney for your case.