Being pulled over for driving under the influence can be devastating. The charges associated with this type of violation can be significant, and the effects of these charges can last well into the future. Determining if you should hire an attorney to help you fight a DUI can be challenging, especially if funds are limited.

Here are three factors that you should consider to help you better determine if a DUI attorney will be able to help you avoid serious complications as you face DUI charges in the future.

1. The facts of your case.

As you contemplate whether or not you want to hire an attorney, it can be beneficial to gather some of the facts associated with your case. If you had a high blood alcohol content at the time you were pulled over, it can be challenging to fight your DUI in court.

However, if your blood alcohol levels were low or the field sobriety tests administered at the time you were pulled over were inconclusive, it may be possible to have your case dismissed or your charges reduced. An attorney will be able to help you examine the facts of your case and advise you on the right course of action to take as you attempt to resolve a DUI.

2. The possibility of a plea bargain.

Taking a DUI case to trial can be a time-consuming and costly endeavor for all parties involved. In many instances, the prosecuting attorney assigned to a DUI case will offer a plea bargain to avoid a trial. Determining whether or not taking a plea bargain you are being offered is a wise decision can be challenging.

An experienced attorney will be able to help you examine the terms of the plea bargain, determine how they will affect your future, and negotiate with the prosecuting attorney for more favorable terms when needed.

3. The possibility of a severe sentence.

If you are found guilty of operating a vehicle while under the influence, you could face stiff punishments. Some of the punishments associated with a DUI conviction include fines, a loss of your driving privileges, and even significant incarceration time.

Having an experienced attorney by your side to assist in sentence bargaining can be a simple and effective way to ensure the punishment associated with your DUI conviction is as minimal as possible.

Once you are able to recognize how an attorney can help mitigate the damages associated with being convicted of a DUI, it becomes easy to see why you should partner with an experienced attorney when taking your DUI case to court in the future.