Before you decide to plead guilty to a DUI charge be very aware that the result of not fighting these charges will almost certainly result in a verdict of guilty as well as a DUI conviction on your record that will follow you for the rest of your life. If you don't fight your DUI charges, you can't win. If you only succeed in a reduction of charges and penalties you are still far ahead of where a guilty plea will land you. Yes, possibly you were drinking while driving, but entering a guilty plea effectively relinquishes your Constitutional rights. An experienced DUI attorney with a solid background can find many valid defense arguments relevant to your particular case.
The Consequences of Pleading Guilty
Using California as an example, if you plead guilty to the charge of DUI you could be placed on probation for 3-5 years, be slapped with heavy fines, lose your driver's license and be ordered by the court to attend a DUI treatment program. Further, if you are caught driving at any time with any detectable amount of alcohol in your blood you will be in violation of your probation and will incur a second drunk driving charge--even if you were well below the legal limit. If you violate your probation you have also waived your right to a jury trial, and keep in mind that a judge operates by a much lower standard for finding you guilty--he does not need to be convinced beyond a reasonable doubt, but only be "swayed by the evidence." Most states have similar laws.
The Financial Cost of a DUI Conviction
If you plead guilty to your DUI charges you will almost certainly be subject to the following charges:
- Towing charges for your vehicle, anywhere from $100-$1200 depending on the location. If you can't afford to pay the towing charges within 30 days your vehicle may legally be auctioned.
- A huge increase in your insurance premiums, assuming your company doesn't drop you; your rates could double or even quadruple for the next 3-5 years.
- Court fines and fees of anywhere from $300-$1200
- Alcohol Evaluation charge of $150-$200
- Alcohol Education and Treatment Program--$350-$2000
- License reinstatement--$100-$250
- Ignition Interlock device in states that require them can cost as much as $90 per month plus up-front costs
- Losing your license could also impact your job, leaving you without a monthly paycheck as well.
Remember, you are innocent until proven guilty, so do not, under any circumstances, plead guilty to a DUI charge without benefit of an attorney's expertise. The prosecution bears the burden of proof and you only need one juror to vote not guilty.
