What Happens if I Can’t Afford to Hire a DUI Lawyer?

DUI with a LawyerDUI attorneys are like most other types of lawyers in that they bill by the hour or charge a flat fee. Many require an additional payment up-front to retain their services. Though there is often room for negotiation with these charges and payment plans may be available, some people are still unable to afford private attorneys. Fortunately, there are alternatives that do not require pleading guilty to a DUI charge.

DIY Legal Research

After receiving a free DUI arrest review from FightDUICharges.com, some people do their own legal research, gather documents that support their innocence, and complete the paperwork required to fight the charges in court. When necessary, they consult with experienced attorneys who charge by the hour, helping to keep costs down without compromising their defense.

By relying only on reputable information available in print and online, these individuals are able to build strong cases. They may discover that their rights were violated during the car stop or that alcohol test equipment or results were inaccurate. Armed with knowledge of applicable laws, they are able to prove this to the court and have their DUI charges dismissed.

Public Defenders

Most defendants in criminal cases are considered legally indigent and unable to afford attorneys. The law prohibits states from prosecuting these individuals unless attorneys are provided to them. In response, most states have local public defenders, licensed lawyers who represent only defendants in criminal cases who are deemed indigent. These attorneys are paid by the government and spend much of their time in local courts so they understand how the court system works. Those who are good at their jobs act in the best interests of their clients instead of cow-towing to judges.

In some jurisdictions, one public defender is assigned to a defendant for the duration of a DUI case. In others, different public defenders may handle different aspects of the case. It is the responsibility of each lawyer to prepare comprehensive documentation regarding his or her involvement in the process so the defense does not suffer.

Whether a defendant in a DUI case is assigned a public defender at no charge or is able to afford limited legal representation, the goal is to build the strongest case possible against the DUI charge. A conviction may result in fines, license suspension, and jail time, so the stakes are high. Lack of funds should not prevent an individual from fighting a DUI charge and winning.

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