Driving under the influence of alcohol is considered to be a crime in Erie. Therefore, DUI is dealt with in criminal court. You are entitled to be represented in court. Most defendants employ an attorney privately or have a public defender who is appointed by the judge.
This article will go over some of the elements you should consider before deciding which type of criminal lawyer in Erie is best for you.
Consulting a Lawyer about Your Case
It's hard for someone with no experience in law or any training to evaluate the strengths and shortcomings of a DUI case. DUI laws are complex and always changing and the circumstances of each case are different. Therefore, seeking the advice of a knowledgeable DUI attorney can be beneficial.
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The majority of DUI attorneys in Erie offer prospective clients a no-cost consultation. However, even if you need to pay a modest fee, it's well-spent. Bring your police record and any other documents related to the case that you may have to get the most out of the time you have. It may also be helpful to bring an agenda of questions you'd like to be addressed.
Public Defenders
The majority of criminal defendants are entitled to retain an attorney. If you are unable to employ your attorney, then the court will select one on your behalf. Attorneys appointed by the court are typically from the public defender's office.
Public defenders are involved in a vast amount of criminal cases including a lot of DUIs. Therefore, the majority of public defenders are well-versed with DUI law and defense.