Reducing DUI to Reckless Driving

What if you could save thousands of dollars on insurance premiums and fines? What if you were able to keep a DUI off your driving record? What if you were able to keep your driver’s license? These questions don’t merely have to be “what ifs”. They can be reality with the right Arizona DUI defense attorney handling your case.

A DUI conviction results in penalties that have far-reaching consequences. Let’s say you are a truck driver for a furniture company. Your job depends on your ability to drive. Even with a first-time DUI conviction on your record, your employer will see you as a liability issue and will probably fire you. Or perhaps you have studied hard to complete medical school and are finally ready to enter the world of work. Having a DUI on your employment application could cost you your dream job.

Add to that the possibility of jail time, parole and community service and you have a list of harsh punishments. So how can a DUI defense attorney reduce your DUI charge to reckless driving? The answer depends on your specific case.

In a best case scenario this is your first DUI charge and run-in with the law. Your attorney can use your clean record to convince the prosecution you are a responsible citizen. The right DUI defense attorney will also be able to spot any weakness in the prosecution’s case. For example, did the police officer have probable cause to stop you or was there an issue of prejudice? Were your field sobriety test results accurate? Was the breath test machine working properly and was the officer trained to use that specific machine? Depending on your case your attorney may be able to block or reduce any evidence against you.

The stronger your defense, the weaker the prosecution’s case will be and they will be more inclined to enter into a plea bargain, which can result in a DUI charge being reduced to reckless driving. Usually, the prosecution will request that the penalties be treated similar to an actual DUI conviction. For example, they may order you to attend DUI school, get alcohol treatment and perform community service. However, the benefit for you will be that you will not be convicted of DUI.

You should contact a DUI defense lawyer immediately if you have been arrested for DUI in Bisbee, Arizona.