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I was recently pulled over and refused to perform any field sobriety test. They arrested me for DWI and gave me an arraignment date which is quickly approaching. My question is: What is the best thing for me to do on arraignment day? I cannot afford a lawyer and have had it suggested that I plead not guilty and ask for a public defender in hopes of getting a plea bargain. Thank you.
8 ANSWERS
Michael J. Breczinski
Yes plead not guilty and ask for a public defender.? Some of the best criminal lawyers are public defenders. Also pleading guilty right away just gives up all your bargaining power.
Answered on Jan 13th, 2014 at 7:35 PM
Bankruptcy Attorney serving Federal Way, WA
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Freeborn Law Offices P.S.
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Same advice I would give; however, there may be little an attorney can do. For one thing, by refusing the breath test, even if you are found not guilty of the DUI, or it is even dismissed, by the simple fact that you refused the breath test, Department Of Licensing can suspend your license for one year, possibly more. These types of cases are very complex. Yes, get a public defender to help you.
Answered on Jan 13th, 2014 at 7:34 PM
Criminal Defense Attorney serving Alhambra, CA
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Francis John Cowhig
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If you can't afford a private attorney, ask the court to appoint the public defender's office to represent you.
Answered on Jan 13th, 2014 at 7:34 PM
Criminal Attorney serving Houston, TX
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The Montes Law Firm
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If you can not afford an attorney you should ask the court to appoint you an attorney. DWI defense is very technical area of the law. Do not go at it on your own. A public defender or court appointed attorney can represent you just as well. If you are not guilty you always have the choice of going to trial even with a court appointed attorney.
Answered on Jan 13th, 2014 at 7:34 PM
James Edward Smith
Always plead not guilty first.
Answered on Jan 13th, 2014 at 5:17 PM
Divorce Attorney serving Bloomfield Hills, MI
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Catchick Law, P.C.
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If you cannot afford a lawyer, DEFINITELY ask for a court-appointed attorney, and you should ASAP request from the police any video evidence they may have (like video of the initial investigation, the subsequent stop and arrest, and administration of the Breathalyzer, if applicable), as many police departments will only maintain those video records for 21 - 30 days.
Answered on Jan 13th, 2014 at 5:13 PM
Adoption Attorney serving Nicholasville, KY
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Law Office ofAdam G. Zeroogian, PLLC
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Your plan to plead not guilty and ask for a p.d. is appropriate.
Answered on Jan 13th, 2014 at 5:13 PM