Being caught while driving under the influence is a very serious offense. It could mean a large fine and even jail times. There are other numerous problems that you will encounter if you are charged with a DUI such as insurance bumps, DUI license suspension and plenty of other things. It could even hinder your ability to keep or get a job. However, the good news is, if you have had a DUI license suspension then there are a couple of things that you can do in order to get you back into good standing with the law. You don’t have to let it ruin your life.
Hire a good DUI lawyer to represent you in court.
You need a lawyer that has your back. They need to be experienced in cases like yours. Don’t be afraid to ask how many DUI license suspension cases they have won in their time as a lawyer. You should be able to have a free consultation with whichever lawyer you are considering and be able to ask them whatever you want. Look for a lawyer that not only have experiences and wins under their belt but is also approachable, willing to keep in contact with you, believes in you and will work for you. It’s also a good idea to find out about their payment system. Some lawyers will allow you pay in installments and some want it all up front.
Install a breathalyzer in your car through your insurance company.
In order to get you in better standing with your insurance company, you could have a breathalyzer installed in your car. You won’t be able to start your car without using it and usually it is set up in such a way that you will not be able to leave the car running for a long period of time without using it again. This will prove to your insurance company that you are wanting to make changes and do better with your life. It might be expensive but if you use the breathalyzer consistently for six months to a year, your insurance will lower your rates back down again.
Opt for community service in exchange for a lessened verdict.
Sometimes you will have the option of doing community service for a certain amount of hours. This may require a lot of hours and some work that you might not particularly enjoy but it’s better than the fine you would have to pay or the potential jail time you would need to serve otherwise. Talk with your DUI lawyers to see if this is something that you might be able to do. While you probably can’t choose the type of community service that you do, it’s a better option than spending that time in jail.
Accept a shorter sentence if available.
You DUI attorney will probably not being able to get your charges dismissed entirely but they should be able to lower the charges but getting you community service or a lesser fine. However, if it comes to it and you absolutely have to do jail time, go for the least amount of time possible. There is usually some wiggle room when it comes to these things and your attorney should be able to negotiate some sort of plea for you in order to set you up with a lesser amount of time in jail. Once a reduced sentence has been offered, go ahead and take it. It’s not likely that it will be reduced again.
Request an administrative hearing from the DMV.
If you are faced with a DUI license suspension, there are actually two actions filed against you. The court will file one and the DMV files one. You’ll have to contact the DMV in order to stop your license from being suspended. If you request an administrative hearing, you may be able to prevent it. Or at least you may be able to get a restricted license which would let you drive to work and necessities.
Don’t let a DUI ruin your entire life. It is important to take the necessary steps to take control and make amends for yourself.