The moment you decide to drive while you are intoxicated is the moment you put other people at risk. When this happens, you will be arrested on a potential DUI charge. There will be a relatively long legal process, and as usual, it is best to have an attorney. DUI charges are serious, and you need an experienced DUI attorney to win your case.

Do You Need a Public Defender?

According to the constitution, you are entitled to an attorney to represent you in court. Therefore if you are charged with DUI, you can get a public defender, although you have to prove that you need one.

Of course, you have the option to find a private DUI lawyer who will spend more time on your case, but if you cannot afford it, the court will provide you a public defender if you risk being put in prison.

Am I Eligible for a Court-Appointed DUI Attorney?

No fixed income makes you eligible or ineligible for public defender representation. However, if you receive needs-based government support like TANF and SSI, then you are eligible.

Are Court-Appointed Attorneys Equally as Good?

Contrary to popular beliefs, court-appointed attorneys are equally as good as private attorneys. Some public defenders put a lot of time and hard work in their cases. Unfortunately, there might be a difference in the value of service you get as opposed to hiring a private attorney.

For one, they have a heavy workload and are often too busy for the regular client-attorney meetings. Budgetary constraints equally make them negotiate the best plea for their clients rather than taking the case to trial.

Despite all these, public defenders are better than self-representation. It is okay to go for a private DUI attorney specialized in DWI cases if you can afford one because you are more likely to have a favorable outcome.

Understand the DUI Consequences

If you are convicted of DUI, you need to understand that the consequences may be severe hence the need for an attorney. Under the new DUI laws, you are likely to receive an automatic suspension of your driver's license or lose it for close to three years.

Furthermore, you also risk serving jail time, pay thousands of dollars as fine or be suspended from operating any vehicle. Your auto insurance rates can also be increased for five years after a DUI conviction.

Much as you are not permitted to choose a lawyer to represent you, court-appointed attorneys are better than representing yourself if you cannot afford a private criminal defense law attorney. Contact a lawyer like Martinez, Raymond for more information and assistance.