Almost 2 million DUI and DWI cases all over the country are on file in different courts. In fact, these DUI and DWI cases occupy a huge percentage of the criminal dockets of nearly all court proceedings. With the intensified penalties of DUI and DWI offenses, those charged have to take a more serious look at the plea they will enter. While a guilty plea is certain to bring punishment, a not guilty plea may offer helpful options. A good Montana DWI/DUI lawyer can help to insure that not guilty plea means you get your life back.

State Laws

For first time offenders who are at least twenty-one years of age, Montana laws say that driving with an alcohol content of .08% can lead to an arrest. If you are under the age of twenty-one, the limit is .02%.

Montana laws are also unique in that it is an automatic consent state. If you hold a driver’s license in the state, you have automatically consented to a breathalyzer or blood test just by signing for your license. If you reject chemical testing, you will automatically lose your license. There will be an administrative hearing to decide how long your license will remain suspended.

If you are convicted of drinking and driving, you will face several penalties. You can serve up to six months in jail, and you are looking at a fine of at least one thousand dollars. Also, you are likely to lose your license for at least six months.

Should you face DUI or DWI convictions more than once, you may forfeit your vehicles. If you are charged a fourth time, you will be brought up on felony charges.

What To Do

When charged with a DUI or a DWI, there are some things to seriously think about. First, take the charges seriously. A criminal conviction can be limiting.

• Current and future employers have a right to view your criminal records, which may mean that you not only lose your current job, you could also be kept out of the running for other employment.
• Credit bureaus can view your criminal record which can affect your status for student loans, home loans, and car loans as well as credit card offers.
• Landlords can view your criminal record which may mean that you do not get the apartment or home you want.

Once you have realized the serious external consequences to charges like these, the next best thing to do is call a lawyer. To figure out Montana DUI laws and courtroom events can be demanding. Getting a lawyer whose field of specialization is DUI and DWI defense can make a huge impact in the results of your case. In most cases, the initial consultation with a Montana DWI/DUI lawyer is free, and it is always treated with utmost confidentiality. DUI (driving under the influence of liquor) or DWI (driving while intoxicated) can be a serious infringement with severe outcomes.

Choosing the Right Attorney

Montana DWI/DUI lawyers can assist you in your battle with DUI charges and probably help you lower fines, severe penalties, jail time, and perhaps avoid a criminal record altogether. How do you find the right one?

First, look for an experience lawyer. Drunk-driving defenses in Montana can be a complicated matter. The right lawyer has a lot of researching to do. Your lawyer needs to look into any tests done at the time of arrest as well as questioning witnesses. As always, experienced and reliable lawyers who are knowledgeable in DUI or DWI cases are essential to doing the job right.

Second, look for a lawyer you can afford. Getting a DUI lawyer in Montana can be reasonably priced. They offer accommodating fee options, and sometimes, the initial consultation is free. Remember, though, if you cannot afford an attorney, look into the option of finding a court-appointed litigator on your behalf.

DUI and DWI punishments can vary, and in Montana , punishment can be unbelievably difficult. With a practiced and qualified DUI lawyer to evaluate your case and decide if possible mitigating circumstances may help overcome the charges and win your case.

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