Getting convicted of a DUI can result in harsh penalties and a record that follows you around for a long time. That’s why it’s no surprise that many drivers opt for a plea bargain if they can get one. A DUI lawyer in Montgomery County, PA can evaluate your case and help you negotiate for a better deal if possible.
What Are the Benefits of a Plea Bargain?
A plea bargain can do more than reduce your penalties. It could also downgrade your charges. This is a good deal because a DUI can affect your record for a long time. Punishments for a DUI are already quite severe, but getting accused of a second or third DUI can mean even harsher penalties.
So if we can negotiate a plea bargain for you, we will often try to get those charges reduced. This often means you pleading guilty to a charge like reckless driving or exhibition of speed. Your punishment will be less severe and you do not have to worry about the consequences that come along with having a DUI on your record.
How Can a Plea Bargain Affect My Punishment?
Someone convicted of a DUI often faces jail time and high fines. When your charges get downgraded in a plea bargain, the consequences you’ll face can also change. For example, you will probably pay a fine for reckless driving, but it will be less than the one paid for a DUI. If you do end up spending time in prison, it would be a shorter stay than a DUI conviction would have resulted in.
Even if the DUI charge stays on the table, a plea bargain can sometimes help you avoid the most severe consequences. This is especially true for first-time offenders who may be eligible for a diversionary program like ARD. Accelerate Rehabilitative Disposition allows you to avoid a conviction and a criminal record if you successfully complete all of the action it requires of you.
When Does the State Offer Defendants a Plea Bargain?
The state will often offer a plea bargain when it isn’t quite sure if it will get a conviction at trial. However, sometimes an offer is made when the prosecution actually does have a good case simply due to how many cases the court has to deal with. This is why it is important to talk to your lawyer and carefully evaluate the plea bargain, the evidence against you, and whether or not you have a strong chance of succeeding at trial. Do not just assume that the state offered a deal just because it has no case.
Meet With Our Legal Team
If you are facing DUI charges, contact Mudrick & Zucker to schedule a consultation. We can take the time to look closely at your case and advise you on the next steps.
