DWI trials are among the most complex areas of criminal law. The ability to come up with a defense against DWI charges requires extensive knowledge of the legal rules and procedures that surround such litigation. A DWI trial can have a long-term impact on your personal life, including losing your job and your driver’s license. This is in addition to the typical penalties and fines that are often imposed by courts. It is therefore essential that you be armed with important information about DWI cases. This article provides the importance of hiring competent DWI attorney in Mount Vernon WA.
Things that the prosecutor must prove
You cannot be convicted for a DWI offense unless the prosecutor proves the following factors:
* That you were in physical control of a vehicle at the time of arrest.
* That your alcohol level was at or above a prohibited level of intoxication.
* That the physical and psychological ability to operate a motor vehicle was adversely effected by your drunkenness.
* That your blood contained certain prohibited substances that you acquired without prescription.
How to preserve your right to drive
You may request a hearing to contest the suspension of your license within 15 days from the date the notice was served. Alternatively, you may find out if you are eligible for an occupational license.
The foundation of sound defenses
There are available defenses that may help you in proving your non-guilty plea, or mitigate your sentence if found guilty. These include: showing that the arresting officer had no reasonable cause to stop you, contesting the constitutionality of the arrest or administration of road tests, search and seizures, showing that the arresting officer violated Miranda provisions, such as failure to give you warnings to remain silent or failure to advise you on your right to an attorney.
To ensure that your case is adequately defended, it is essential that you hire an attorney who is knowledgeable on the prevailing DWI laws in your area. The lawyer will help you in conducting a thorough review of all the police reports and videos, in addition to carrying out a vigorous cross-examination of the arresting officer. If you are looking for a DWI Attorney in Mount Vernon WA, contact Howson Law Office.