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How Severe Will My DUI Penalties Be?

One of the most nerve-wracking things about awaiting a DWI trial is not knowing how severe the penalties will be. There is a wide range of potential penalties depending on how the judge views your case. But there are things you can do to make sure that the penalties are on the lighter side. 

DWI Sentencing Depends On How Many Offenses You've Had

If you are a first time offender, you're in luck. A judge may be more receptive to claims that the drunk driving offense was an accident or that the charges are false. First time DWI sentences also tend to get lighter sentences than a second or third-time offender. If you have a clean criminal record in general, then you can use this to your advantage in arguing that you are an otherwise responsible and law-abiding citizen who simply made a mistake. 

Your Lawyer Matters

Getting an experienced DWI defense attorney like David A. Mansfield to represent your case is important too. A great lawyer should have years of experience dealing specifically with DWI law; ask to see their success rates in defending past DWI charges. 

Going into the trial without a lawyer is never recommended because a lack of experience can lead to rookie mistakes that will affect your sentencing. If you are considering representing yourself, make sure that you are aware of the different tactics for dispelling a DWI charge, such as arguing against the validity of your blood alcohol test and challenging the legitimacy of your pull-over. 

Your Temperament Can Affect the Outcome

While your personality shouldn't technically win you any favors with a judge, the fact is that we are all human. Having a pleasant demeanor in the court room may give you more of a chance to speak your mind about what happened as the judge will be more willing to listen. If you also behave with courtesy towards the other people in the court room, including the officer who sentenced you, this can help to paint a picture of you as a respectful person who is not a threat to public safety. 

Your Plea

Finally, you have a bit of say in how severe your penalties will be. You may be able to successfully argue for a lower penalty with your lawyer's help by coming up with a plea deal. For instance, you might bargain for the right to use an interlock device in your car instead of getting your license taken away outright. 


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