Were you recently arrested for drunk driving? If so, you're likely concerned about the outcome and the expense. A DUI conviction can lead to hefty fines, a suspended license, community service, and even jail time. There are also court fees and your attorney's compensation. When it's all said and done, your DUI could cost you thousands of dollars. If it goes to trial, the cost could be even greater.
Of course, there is a way to minimize the cost and eliminate the uncertainty about the outcome. You could negotiate a plea deal. Prosecutors often welcome plea deals because it simplifies the process and saves them time. However, it's important that you negotiate a plea deal with a strategy in mind. If you don't have a plan, the negotiations could backfire on you. Below are a few tips to keep in mind.
Don't lay all your cards on the table. As you begin to negotiate your plea deal, you may notice that the conversation between yourself and the prosecutors or police officers becomes much friendlier. You may even feel like you can trust them. It can be easy to let things slip about the DUI or the night in question. However, it's important to not disclose too much information. Remember, that if the deal falls through, anything you say could be used against you in trial. Don't disclose how much you had to drink or admit guilt in any way. Don't discuss your strategy for fighting the charges in trial. Instead, simply state that you want to negotiate a deal so you can get past this challenge and move on with your life. Don't give any more information than is needed.
Remember you can always withdraw from the deal. In most cases, a prosecutor will negotiate in good faith to reach a deal that works for everyone. That means that both sides make concessions to reach agreement. However, you may feel that the prosecutor is asking you to make all the concessions. Perhaps they're pushing for an outcome that you feel is excessive. Remember that you can always pull out of the plea deal, even if it's close to completion. You can even withdraw on the spot in court before the judge certifies the deal. Just because you start negotiating doesn't mean you have to see it through.
Know what you want. Before you start negotiations with the prosecutor, it's important to prioritize your goals and determine what you want to happen. What's the most important outcome for you? Do you want to avoid jail time? Do you want to face minimal license suspension? Do you want to avoid having a DUI on your record? In order to achieve your top goal, you'll likely have to compromise on other conditions. For instance, to avoid a DUI conviction, you may have to plead guilty or some other charge. To get your license back early, you may need to have a breathalyzer installed in your car. Know which outcomes are and are not acceptable to you before you start deal discussions.
Ready to navigate your way through a DUI charge? Contact a DUI attorney in your area today. They can help you get the best outcome for your needs and goals.
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