I have a dui and want to plead not guilty. Should I use a lawyer?

Answer:

If you have been charged with a DUI to plead not guilty you do not need an attorney, however, you will need to retain an attorney as soon as possible after you enter your plea in order to increase your chances of not being convicted of the charges.

When you enter a plea of not guilty you are going to be prosecuted by the state for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This is an extremely serious charge, which can have long lasting consequences and penalties that you will have to deal with often for years to come.

Five Reasons to Use A Lawyer

Unless you are an attorney, you will not be familiar with court procedure and could inadvertently hurt your case with your lack of knowledge and finesse.
DUI charges can be tough to beat, especially if the prosecution has a blood alcohol test that showed you exceeded the legal limit, or incriminating video tapes of your performance during a field sobriety test, and testimony from the arresting officer about your erratic driving before you were pulled over.
Defending clients who have been charged with DUI is a specialty, often requiring much complex technical knowledge about lawful probable cause, correct procedures for administering and interpreting field sobriety tests, and correct procedures equipment certification for blood alcohol and breathalyzer testing.
Penalties upon conviction can include jail time, having your driver's license suspended, community service, participation in alcohol treatment or education programs, hefty fines, and points on your license.
When you can drive again, you may have to use an ignition interlock device and the cost of your car insurance is likely to skyrocket.

Get Legal Help

Don't risk your license, your freedom and your future by attempting to defend yourself against DUI charges. Contact an attorney today with a track record of successfully defending clients against DUI charges.

References:

How to Fight a DUI Charge

Get Informed - DUI/DWI Law Information

We've got a large library of DUI and DWI law articles, Q&A's and other resources. Start here to learn about DUI laws, arrests, defense, penalties and more.

DUI Basics
Get the low down on the law and what you can expect if you're arrested and charged with a DUI.

Your DUI and the DMV
Besides the court and criminal charge the Department of Motor Vehicles will also bring you grief.

DUI Arrests, Police Reports, Arraignments, and Fees
After you're arrested, booked and released, you'll need to get ready for your arraignment.

DUI/DWI Charges and Penalties
After a DUI conviction expect fines, license suspension, DUI school, and sometimes jail.

Fighting a DUI
You may have options to lessen the sentence, get a reduced charge or get the case dismissed.

Getting Help with a DUI/DWI Charge
There are some things you can do yourself and some which require the help of an attorney.

Living with a DUI
A DUI conviction can be devastating. Learn what issues may come up.