6 Benefits of Hiring a DUI Attorney in Bismarck, ND
There are various benefits to hiring a Bismarck DUI attorney, including a reduction in sentencing or saving time and money. Learn how to find your best option.
According to the CDC, US law enforcement makes about one million DUI arrests annually. If you have recently been charged with driving under the influence, quality legal representation can help you minimize penalties.
Here, we’ll discuss some benefits of hiring a Bismarck ND DUI attorney. Read on for some reasons to enlist professional help in handling your legal case.
1. Comprehensive Legal Knowledge
Some people try to advocate for themselves in court. Unfortunately, this is generally ineffective since the prosecution will have a top-notch lawyer trying to prove their case.
Failing to hire a DUI attorney makes conviction more likely since you don’t have expert legal knowledge.
A North Dakota attorney has a comprehensive understanding of the state’s DUI laws. They’re:
- Familiar with penalties and procedures
- Knowledgable about recent case rulings
- Up-to-date on new legal developments that might impact cases
Extensive experience also makes attorneys learn how to negotiate with local judges. They are likely to have advocated for clients before the same judge who is on your case. It’s also possible that a DUI lawyer will have worked with the same prosecuting attorney in the past.
Your attorney may enter the courtroom with pre-existing knowledge of how to talk to your specific judge or poke holes in the prosecutor’s case.
2. Strong Evidence Compilation
Seasoned North Dakota DUI lawyers start by gathering evidence about your case. This may include:
- Pulling security footage showing your driving
- Requesting police reports from when you were pulled over
- Gathering eyewitness accounts from those who saw you drive
- Asking for results from blood and breathalyzer tests
- Looking into field sobriety tests and their results
- Statements you made after hearing your Miranda rights
If there was a collision involved in the DUI, they may also request:
- Photos of property damage and injuries
- Medical bills and records
- Accident reconstruction for more information on what happened
Individuals could not access many of these things on their own. Legal professionals may be required to subpoena records and security footage. Even documents that you could access on your own such as medical records may require a subpoena so they don’t take months to get to you.
3. Strategic Defense Planning in North Dakota
DUI attorneys understand the complexities of DUI regulations and the function of evidence in their defense. After gathering evidence and compiling statements, lawyers will use past experience and knowledge to plan a strategic defense for you.
Strategic defense planning is proactive.
It anticipates possible arguments that the prosecution might make. Attorneys can prepare strategies for combatting these arguments before your court date.
Your DUI lawyer can also assess possible legal risks and evaluate how likely each one is. They can prioritize defense strategies that minimize the likelihood that you’ll face severe penalties.
You’re less likely to face misdemeanor charges after a DUI when your team is prepared for whatever the prosecution throws at you.
4. Avoiding Penalties Effectively
North Dakota has fairly strict DUI penalties.
Those charged with a first offense will receive a Class B misdemeanor on their record. When convicted, those with DUIs may receive:
- $500 fine if BAC is below .16
- $750 fine if BAC is .16 or higher
- Two days imprisonment if BAC is .16 or higher
- A 91-day license suspension if BAC is below .18
- A 180-day license suspension if BAC is at or above .18
Second offenses within seven years are also Class B misdemeanors, but they carry harsher penalties:
- $1,500 fine
- Ten days imprisonment
- 360 days of participation in the North Dakota 24/7 program
- A one-year license suspension if BAC is below .18
- A two-year suspension if BAC is at or above .18
Third offenses within seven years are Class A misdemeanors. Penalties may include:
- $2,000 fine
- 120 days imprisonment
- 360 days of participation in the North Dakota 24/7 program
- 360 days of supervised probation
- A two-year license suspension if BAC is below .18
- A three-year suspension if BAC is at or above .18
Note that these are the highest possible penalties in most cases. Not everyone will receive all of them even after a conviction.
Hiring top lawyers in North Dakota can minimize these penalties. You may receive lower fines and less jail time. A Bismarck attorney may also help you protect your license from being suspended or revoked, enabling you to continue commuting and getting around.
5. A Less Stressful Legal Process
Being arrested for a DUI is emotionally taxing. Anxiety is a natural response when you’re facing hefty fines and jail time. Luckily, working with a top-notch lawyer can help minimize stress.
A lawyer will:
- Tell you what penalties you’re realistically facing, ensuring that you’re mentally prepared
- Answer questions throughout the legal process so you’re not left wondering
- Explain plea deals and other courtroom complexities to you
- Tell you what to expect throughout the trial
Consistent communication can give you confidence in your ability to succeed in the courtroom.
6. Saving Time and Money
Most people who are reluctant to hire an attorney are worried about money. It’s true that you will need to pay for legal services, but this is less expensive than facing high DUI fines.
Additionally, other penalties associated with a conviction may cost you in the future. Those with criminal records are frequently turned down for jobs and apartments. You may have a lower income than you otherwise would because of the DUI conviction on your record.
DUI lawyers in North Dakota also can save time and money during the trial process. They know how to stop you from making expensive mistakes during your case. Effective allocation of time and resources lets you save money while getting a better outcome from the trial.
Work With a Top Bismarck DUI Attorney
Now that you know some benefits of hiring a DUI attorney, it’s time to unlock the best legal representation in Bismarck, ND.
Experts at Heartland Law Office, PC are excited to help you resolve your legal issues as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. Our BBB-accredited business has been listed in the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 and was named Lawyers of Distinction in 2020.
Request an in-person or virtual case evaluation to take advantage of our DUI defense strategies.