Expunge DUI Records

The simplest rule to avoid drunken driving charges and penalties — do not drink and drive. However, this may not be possible in certain instances. Many have no clue about how little mistakes can lead to serious trouble if you face stop and arrest on DWI (driving while intoxicated) charges.

Louisiana DWI laws are very stringent about punishing drunk drivers. Therefore, getting legal advice and representation is imperative. Most are aware of this, and yet commit mistakes. Avoid these and you may be able to defend yourself against the charges.

Delay in getting legal help — may hamper your case and increase problems. For a DWI charge in New Orleans, you only have 15 days to request the Department of Public Safety and Corrections for a hearing. If you do not get a lawyer to work on your case immediately, you may miss this deadline, and face license suspension.

Ignoring specialization of the legal practitioner — may cost you dearly. You do not visit a dentist for an eye infection. Similarly, you do not choose a divorce lawyer for your DWI defense. You need a lawyer specializing in the Louisiana laws to handle your case.

Underestimating the importance of experience — may also lead to difficulties. Just knowledge about the laws would be of no use if the lawyer has no idea about the way the legal process works. Whether it is plea bargaining or creating a defense strategy for trial, experienced lawyers can handle it with efficiency.

Placing too much emphasis on success rate — may lead to a wrong decision. Sometimes, a law firm may have 85% success rate, but when you probe deeper, you see that those cases did not involve any major complications, making them easier to win.

Opting for the law firm with the lowest fees — trying to save on this may end in disaster. The cheapest is not always the best option. Do not choose a New Orleans DWI law firm because of its cheap rates. Instead, focus on its reputation and reliability. Look for success stories, client testimonials, and such other proof of this.

Choosing competent legal aid and assistance on time can save you a lot of trouble. DWI conviction in Louisiana comes with penalties including jail term (6 months for the first offense, and more for subsequent ones), fines ($1,000-5,000), license suspension, substance abuse treatment, vehicle seizure and forfeiture, and so on.

Moreover, the record stays until you opt for expungement using the proper procedure.

On the other hand, you can opt for an explanation that there was legal justification for your act — as you felt dizzy and had to pull out in order to avoid an accident. Whatever the situation, if it was a mistake on your part, you had better seek legal help. Discuss the matter with an attorney to know what to do. Go through the lawyer directory to find a qualified traffic tickets attorney.

Originally published here.

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