The question is quite simple…do you need a DUI lawyer for your first DUI offense? In San Diego, the answer is maybe. All too often though, lawyers accept DUI cases in San Diego when they know that there is nothing that can really be done. When determining whether a lawyer is something that you need for your first offense DUI, it is important to have a consultation with an attorney who will give you honest advice. A good DUI lawyer in San Diego will evaluate your first offense case and determine whether a lawyer will be a benefit to you or whether you would be able to achieve the same result by going to court yourself. It is often the case with first time San Diego DUIs that you would be able to get the same outcome by going to court yourself. A DUI lawyer generally can help you if your blood alcohol level is so low that an argument can be made that you were actually under the legal limit when you drove, or when your BAC is so high that the court may look to impose extra punishments on you. Those are the two most common DUI situations in San Diego where a lawyer could really help.
A good lawyer in San Diego for your first offense DUI can be very expensive. It is sometimes worth it too, but it pays to get an honest evaluation first from a lawyer who will tell you whether you can just do the job yourself. Check out http://www.sddefense.com/practice-areas/DUI_lawyer.php for more information.
Do you handle DUI’s from out of state? I live in Denver and was visiting San Diego for a business event and was pulled over in my rental after dinner and charged DUI. I was arrested and bailed out. (Last week) I did blow, but didn’t do the video. Will I have to come back to go to court or can this be handled out of state?
David,
I am sorry to hear about your unfortunate arrest but there is some good news. So long as your case is a misdemeanor, which it certainly should be, your case can be handled by a DUI Lawyer here in San Diego without your presence being required. However, as I mentioned in my blog, you may not need a lawyer for your first time DUI. Obviously if you are not wanting to come back to San Diego you will need a DUI lawyer but if you are ok coming back you may not need one. I would be happy to schedule a free consultation with you to discuss your case and whether a lawyer is the right route for you. I attempted to email you but it apparently did not go through. Please contact me at 619-338-0022 or matt@sddefense.com.
Thanks for that awesome posting. It saved MUCH time
Is it better to plead no contest or guilty in a first offense DUI case where I blew a .12 on the breathalyzer and there was no speeding or accidents. Will there be any jail time?
Jose, the answer depends on the facts of your DUI. There is no way to answer that question without some more information. I would recommend sitting down with a good DUI lawyer and discussing your case. That is the best, and only way for you to really know if a lawyer is necessary and what action you should take at your arraignment.