A drunk driving charge is a serious legal matter with consequences including a license suspension and a lengthy jail sentence. For these reasons, it's crucial to contact a DWI lawyer as soon as possible after an arrest. Below is a quick guide to how attorneys work to protect their clients' rights and futures.

Why Enlist a DWI Lawyer?

1. Prevent Self-Incrimination

Self-incrimination involves saying or doing something that could be used against you in a criminal case. It's easy to make this mistake without knowing it. For instance, even a seemingly innocuous statement like, "I only had one glass of wine," might be considered an admission of guilt. An attorney will review best practices right away and offer invaluable advice about how to best present yourself and the situation to avoid these missteps.

2. Explore All Possible Legal Defenses

DWI cases may seem straightforward, but they are not. A lawyer will consider a variety of defense options immediately after the arrest. For instance, were blood alcohol testing and field sobriety examinations carried out correctly? Were the tests in any way tampered with? Was there sufficient cause to pull you over in the first place? An attorney will launch these investigations on your behalf.

3. Have Representation at Hearings & Trials

After an arrest, a suspect is arraigned at a hearing. For those who have not dealt with criminal matters before, this can be a stressful and scary experience. Having legal counsel ensures a seasoned advocate presents your case in the initial hearing and any upcoming court appearances. A DWI lawyer also prepares their client for the experience of going before judges and juries. They will let you know what to expect of the process and how you can best present the case.

Marc D. Orloff, Attorney at Law, is a criminal defense and DWI lawyer with over 30 years of experience serving the Goshen, NY, area. Contact him as soon as possible after a drunk driving arrest to make certain your case has the strongest chances for a successful outcome. Call (845) 294-8974 today to schedule a consultation. For more information about his background and expertise in this practice area, visit the website.