How To Plead When Charged With A DUI

Hiring a lawyer who specializes in DUI related charges is the best way to get the results the best possible outcome when charged with impaired driving in Toronto. If you have been charged with a drinking and driving related offense, you consult with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.

What if this is my first DUI offense?

If you have not been charged with an impaired driving offense in the past, there is nothing to be gained by immediately pleading guilty. It is always best to speak with a lawyer right away before deciding whether to plead guilty or fight the charge.  

What if I have “Priors”?

If you have been convicted of a drinking and driving offense in the past, the penalties you face will increase. For a second conviction, you will receive a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 days in jail and a driving prohibition of between 2 and 5 years.  For a third drinking and driving conviction, the mandatory minimum sentence is 120 days in jail and a driving prohibition from 3 years to life.

If you have prior drinking and driving convictions, it is always best to consult with a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible so that he/she can help you get the best possible outcome. Only an experienced criminal defense lawyer knows the many “dos and don’ts” of successfully defending DUI charges.    

What will happen to my insurance with a DUI charge?

If you plead guilty and are convicted of an impaired driving offense, your car insurance will see a drastic increase in their yearly insurance premiums for a minimum of five years. This is because your insurance company will now consider you to be a “high risk”. In some cases, your insurance policy may even be canceled. This can greatly affect your life, especially if you need to drive as part of your job or commute long distances.

Don’t plead guilty – consult Erickson Law and fight your impaired driving charge. Call (416) 363-3612 to speak with John Erickson today.