Driving while drunk (DWI) and driving under the influence (DUI) are both regarded criminal offences. A person can be prosecuted if their blood alcohol content exceeds the legal limit of 0.05 percent to 0.08 percent, depending on the jurisdiction. When the blood alcohol percentage surpasses 0.12% in some jurisdictions, an aggravated category of the offence may arise.
Over 1.4 million drivers were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics in 2010, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. A DUI lawyer is a lawyer who represents someone who has been arrested and charged with a DUI or DWI. For this type of conviction, the judicial process might be rather extensive. The first hearing is usually held at the Department of Motor Vehicles, with the final hearing taking place in County or State Court.
Requirements for a DUI Lawyer’s Education
A bachelor’s degree, a law degree (a Juris Doctorate), and passing the BAR exam in the practise state are all required for becoming a DUI lawyer. It is recommended that you do an internship or clerkship with a law firm that specialises in DUI matters while in law school.
Continuing education is a requirement. DUI lawyers must keep up with the latest developments and changes in the legislation governing DUI cases. Continuing education also permits DUI lawyers to maintain their licences while also keeping their skills sharp and current.
Job Description & Required Skills
A DUI lawyer is a criminal defence lawyer that specialises in dealing with DUI/DWI matters. DUI cases frequently make up the majority of a public defender’s caseload. A DUI lawyer is knowledgeable about the DUI laws in the state in which he practises. His main responsibility is to explain the allegations to his client, make recommendations for the best course of action, and represent him in court. He is also in charge of all the administrative details.
Although a client can plead guilty to the charges, a qualified DUI attorney will frequently try to have many of them dropped or reduced early on in the process. During the pre-trial conference, these discussions take place. A DUI lawyer may advise you to enter into a plea or sentence bargain. If his client is arrested, he may submit a move to have his statements thrown out. He can also request an evidentiary hearing in order to learn more about the evidence the prosecution has against his client.
The lawyer assists in jury selection during the trial. On behalf of his client, he gathers expert witnesses and investigators. He’ll also try to identify any inconsistencies in the charges or the police methods utilised to make them.
Salary and Future Prospects
A DUI/DWI lawyer’s average income in 2012 was $56,000. DUI salary, on the other hand, might vary widely based on the employment region, employer, education, and experience.
There is a growing demand for DUI lawyers as the number of DUI/DWI charges and arrests rises. By 2018, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 13% increase in lawyer occupations, including DUI lawyers. Despite the favourable job prospects, the legal industry has a lot of competition. Those with the best academic records and work experience will have a better chance of landing a job.