If you are facing criminal charges and do not want to hire an attorney, you have the right to represent yourself or to work with a public defender. Neither of these options is ideal in certain scenarios though. For example, you may not be familiar with criminal proceedings, and a public defender may not be able to devote enough time to your case to help you devise a strategic defense. For that reason, hiring a DUI attorney is typically best. Although everyone can benefit from quality legal representation, hiring a criminal lawyer is essential for certain individuals. Below, Donna C. Crooks Attorney At Law of Dothan, AL, explains who those individuals are.

When to Hire a DUI Attorney

1. When You Have a Criminal Record

If you already have a DUI conviction on your record, there is a lot more at stake than there might be if this was merely your first offense. Each subsequent conviction comes with more severe penalties, so it is worth hiring a DUI attorney if you have a criminal record.

2. When You Caused Serious Injuries or Death While Impaired

Impaired motorists who cause collisions that result in serious injuries or death to other parties face a lengthy prison sentence and a permanent license revocation, depending on the circumstances of the case. If you were involved in a collision that caused injury or death and have since been accused of being under the influence, contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

3. When You Believe You Are Innocent

Much of the evidence that police gather during traffic stops in order to prove impairment is subjective. Field sobriety tests are notoriously unreliable, and even breathalyzer devices can give inaccurate readings if they are not calibrated correctly. As a result, innocent people sometimes find themselves facing DUI charges. If you are innocent but you’re not sure how to prove it, a seasoned lawyer can help.  

If you need a DUI attorney in Enterprise, Dothan, Ozark, Elba, Geneva, Troy or the Wiregrass area  turn to Donna C. Crooks Attorney At Law. She can help you resolve a vast array of legal issues, ranging from criminal charges to military divorce. Visit her website to explore all of her practice areas, and call (334) 598-9534 to schedule a consultation today.