Various questions can follow a drunk driving arrest. You might wonder if you were really over the legal limit, whether your traffic stop was lawful or how charges will affect your day-to-day life.
Limitless uncertainties could factor into charges, and you have the right to raise questions. There are severe penalties that can come from operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI-DUI), and defending yourself may lessen the adverse effects of an officer’s allegations.
THREE CONSIDERATIONS FOR OWI DEFENSE
A drunk driving conviction can devastate many aspects of your life. Depending on whether you’ve been charged with OWI in the past, your legal consequences could interfere with your:
- Finances. License suspension makes job loss a distinct possibility if your position revolves around transportation. Additionally, a court may fine you up to $10,000.
- Freedom. You may face up to three years of imprisonment, in addition to community service requirements. Meanwhile, felony offenses could restrict employment prospects, living arrangements and travel opportunities.
- Family. Jail time, license suspension and financial penalties all detract from home life. Your absence would likely harm relationships, and depending on your circumstances, an ex may try to use an OWI to reduce your parental rights.
Despite the severity of potential consequences following a drunk driving accusation, an arrest doesn’t necessarily mean your life will take a turn for the worse.
There may be a way to reduce your charges, obtain specialized driving privileges or seek the treatment you need. Learning about your options is a positive step toward building your defense – one that might give you hope for your fight.
