Do I need a lawyer for a first DUI in Oregon?

If you have been arrested for a DUI in Oregon, then you need to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible. This is true whether your DUI offense is your first DUI offense or your fifth DUI offense. There are a number of different reasons why you need a lawyer DUI Oregon:

• A DUI is a criminal charge, and can result in a permanent criminal record and you going to jail (among other penalties). You need a lawyer to help you to fully understand the charges that are being brought against you and to help you to decide how to manage your case to try to minimize the penalties. 
• Prosecutors may be more willing to plea bargain a DUI charge down if it is a first offense. By having a lawyer on your side, your lawyer can negotiate with the prosecutor in order to have the best possible chance of being successful at arranging a plea bargain. If you are able to successful arrange a plea, you can avoid some of the more serious penalties of the DUI and can potentially even keep the DUI off of your permanent record. 
• There are some defenses to a DUI and if you have a lawyer, you can explore those defenses in order to determine if you have any options. If your lawyer is successful at defending you against the charges, you can walk away from the situation without anything on your record at all. 

Remember, the Constitution guarantees your right to a lawyer when you are facing criminal charges, and there is a reason this guarantee is there: it is important for you to have legal representation. Take advantage of the expertise of a legal professional--- it can help you to have the best possible outcome from a bad situation.