In Harrisonburg, a DUI arrest can happen to anyone, not just people that seem to disregard the law. Many honest residents and college students have been in your position, and all of them had to make the decision you are currently facing.
Should you fight your DUI charge or plead guilty and accept the consequences?
As with most legal matters, the answer lies in the details of the incident and your goals. In most cases, defending against conviction is wise, especially when the arrest or the charges are questionable. After all, if you fight, you could win and have your case dismissed.
How do you know when to fight a DUI?
Anyone can choose to fight against DUI charges. However, in the presence of certain conditions, you may have a chance to win should you decide to fight. Examples of these conditions include:
- It is your first ever DUI arrest.
- You aced your field sobriety tests (one-legged stand, walk and turn, etc.).
- Your blood alcohol concentration test put you barely over the legal limit (.08) or you were under it (but still charged).
- The police had no justifiable reason or probable cause to pull you over in the first place.
A DUI conviction can affect your life in many unexpected ways. It can make it hard for you to find a job or get into a good college, for example. It also imposes significant financial hardships.
When deciding whether to fight, plead no contest or enter a guilty plea, consider learning more about Virginia DUI laws to ensure you are well-informed. It is also wise to explore your defense options carefully when making decisions about your circumstances.