Essential Questions To Ask Your Attorney When Arrested For An OWI Charge

Judges take drunk driving cases seriously and may hand the offenders harsh penalties. This includes offenders with operating-while-intoxicated (OWI) charges. When found guilty, the judge can fine the offenders, order them to participate in community service, or sentence them to prison. With the possibility of facing these penalties if convicted, you might want to know more about drunk driving charges and how you can avoid getting a harsh judgment. The best way to get this information is by asking your lawyer the following questions. 

Will You Face Misdemeanor Or Felony Charges?

Generally, law enforcement officers may categorize your crime as a misdemeanor if it's your first OWI offense. If they do this, your charges will likely be less severe if convicted. However, if you are a habitual offender, you could be charged with a felony. In this case, you might get a harsher punishment if the judge finds you guilty. However, there are instances when you might get a severe punishment even if you are a first-time OWI offender. Therefore, hiring a lawyer to defend you when arrested for this offense is always advisable. When you do this, you will have a better chance of avoiding a jail sentence or any other harsh penalty, even if you are a repeat offender.

How Can Your Attorney Help You Avoid A Harsh Judgment?

A lawyer can be beneficial in proving your innocence and assisting you in avoiding harsh judgment. First, they will investigate your arrest and get information that may show inconsistencies or inaccuracies in the evidence presented by the prosecution. They might also get witnesses to testify and prove that your arrest was unwarranted. On top of this, your lawyer may argue your case in court to convince the judge to be lenient when delivering judgment. 

Your attorney's intervention might also convince the judge to allow you to continue driving, even if it will be under certain conditions. Additionally, you may be asked to complete community service instead of serving a prison sentence. However, it is essential to note that you must comply with the judge's orders to avoid harsher penalties. If you go against them, the judge can hand you a harsher penalty.

Contact a drunk driving attorney for advice if you are worried about the consequences you might face after an OWI arrest. Then, during your consultation, ask them the questions above and any other questions that will enable you to understand your case better.

For more information, contact a drunk driving attorney near you.