Accusations of operating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs (OWI) can come with serious consequences. Even for a first offense, if a charge becomes a conviction, you could face jail time and hefty financial penalties.
Additional penalties can include difficulty getting housing or scholarship opportunities and the social stigma that comes with a criminal record.
How can I overcome these challenges?
First, know that you have options. Allegations of drunk driving are just the start. It may seem tempting to take a plea deal and move on — but know that this will not simply go away. The plea deal will likely come with some negative implications. It is wise to have legal counsel explain the pros and cons of the offer before moving forward.
In addition to understanding the implications of a potential plea deal, it is also important to know what other options are available. There are defenses to allegations of drunk driving. Although the exact strategy will vary depending on the details of the case, two broad categories to review in the early stages of building a defense include:
- Elements. There are certain elements that the prosecution must establish to build a criminal charge. If these elements are not met, the prosecution is unlikely to have a successful case. It is important to review these elements to get a better idea of the strength of the case.
- Evidence. It is also important to review both the legality and type of evidence the prosecution is using to build their case. The case may not move forward if the evidence was not gathered following proper protocol or if the other side simply does not have the evidence they need to meet the elements noted above.
A successful defense strategy can result in a reduction or even dismissal of charges. Do not take the allegations lightly. Take the time to review the allegations and defend your rights.
