I f I’m 22 years old and got a DUI, do I need to get a lawyer, public defender or just represent myself?
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I f I’m 22 years old and got a DUI, do I need to get a lawyer, public defender or just represent myself?
I am guilty, however I got in a car accident that left me unconscious for some hours. I dont remember being bought in and according to paper work I admitted I had been drinking and signed a paper handing over my ID. I don’t know what I can do about getting charges reduced.
Asked on March 25, 2015 under Criminal Law, California
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
You will not get a public defender unless you truly cannot afford an attorney; if you *can* afford one, even if you'd really rather not pay the cost, you will denied a public defender.
You should definitely hire a lawyer. An experienced DUI/DWI attorney who is LOCAL and knows the prosecutor(s) and the judge(s) will greatly increase you chance of minimizing the charges and punishment as much as possible. The lawyer will also be able to advise you as to other things (maybe entering a treatment program, or at least taking a defensive driving course) that will also help you when you court date comes.
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