One of the questions that our experienced Clearwater DUI defense team is frequently asked is “do I really need a lawyer? Can I simply plead my case to the judge and hope for leniency?” An individual charged with a DUI is not required to have an attorney represent them in court. However, having an experienced DUI defense advocate can aid in securing the most lenient resolution in your case.
In this brief article, a Clearwater DUI lawyer with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan shares a few ways that hiring an experienced attorney can help you cut through the red tape and secure the most favorable outcome in your DUI case.
Charge Reduction
Our office may be able to negotiate with the State Attorney to secure an amendment in the charge from DUI to reckless driving. It’s important to remember that neither the judge nor the arresting officer have the authority to reduce a DUI to the lesser charge of reckless driving. It’s your defense attorney’s job to achieve the best possible outcome including persuading the prosecutor to reduce the charge from a DUI to reckless driving.
If you’re looking to have your DUI charge reduced to reckless driving, it’s absolutely critical to partner with an attorney who is highly-experienced in DUI defense in Clearwater. At a free consultation with an attorney from The Law Offices at Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan, we’ll examine various aspects of your case, such as lawfulness of the traffic stop, whether injury is involved, and the legality of the request for a breath test, prior to outlining a plan of action that is designed to thoroughly investigate your case and uncover evidence that may prove beneficial to your defense.
DUI Diversion Program
In Florida, you have the option of doing a DUI diversion program in place of other DUI penalties. This can be a preferable resolution to a DUI, which can often carry steep fines, jail time, and loss of license.
In Pinellas County, the State Attorney’s Office introduced the DUI Rehabilitation of Offenders Program (DROP) in June of 2021. During your initial consultation with one of our highly experienced Clearwater DUI lawyers, we will:
- Discuss your eligibility for participation in the DROP Program;
- Explain the benefits of participation in the program; and
- Discuss what steps that you may take to improve your chances of being accepted into the program.
To create the best defense for your case, the top DUI lawyers in Clearwater with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan can help. You may be able to avoid jail time and find a resolution.
For a free consultation with the top DUI lawyers in Clearwater, please contact Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.