Although it is legal to drink alcoholic beverages, it is something that must be done responsibly in order to avoid causing injuries to yourself or others. Sometimes alcohol is much more potent than it initially seems, such as not being completely effective until some time has passed by. In such a case, someone could end up consuming much more alcohol than they should have in order to maintain a sense of soberness. Someone who is consuming alcohol for the first time has a higher chance of ending up in such a situation, especially when it comes to drinking what is known as hard liquor. If you consumed hard liquor for the first time and drove your vehicle because the effects of it didn't hit you until later, a lawyer can help if you ended up getting arrested for DUI.
First Time DUI Offender Status as a Defense
Being a first time DUI offender doesn't mean that you will automatically be given a light sentence by a judge. However, with a lawyer's help, you might be able to get a lighter sentence due to the knowledge that they will use to argue your case. For example, the lawyer might argue that you don't know much about alcohol and didn't know that you were consuming a hard liquor product. They can also explain how the specific liquor that was consumed is known for taking a while to kick in. A lawyer might also use your overall criminal history, in general, to assist with building your case as a first time DUI offender.
Jail Release & a Suspended Sentence
An attorney can help you find a bail bondsman and get released from jail if you have not been able to convince loved ones to help. They might also be able to talk the judge into lowering your bond amount to make it more affordable. After getting out of jail, the lawyer will walk you through the court proceedings and try to get you a lower penalty like a suspended sentence. Basically, a suspended sentence will allow you to remain out of jail and get on probation. If you don't get in trouble during the time you are on probation, you won't have to go back to jail for the initial DUI offense.
Agreeing to Attend an Alcohol Addiction Program
Even if you consumed hard liquor for the first time, an alcohol addiction program can be helpful for your DUI case. You might not have to undergo the treatment due to not being an addict, but being willing to can convince the judge that you are willing to correct your mistake. A lawyer will let you know if you should agree to undergo such a program or not based on your specific case.
For more info, reach out to a local DUI attorney.
