The possible penalties and consequences for a DWI charge are not insignificant. They can range from possible incarceration and hefty fines to license suspension and an increase in insurance premiums. Because of the serious potential penalties and consequences associated with a DWI charge, it is important to understand that criminal defense rights apply in all situations when an individual has been accused of committing a crime and that they provide important protections for accused individuals.

It is important for accused individuals to understand how to protect their constitutional rights which includes protections against unlawful searches and seizures, the right not to speak to authorities or investigators and the right to representation. It is also important to note that a strong criminal defense strategy may also include challenging the alleged evidence against the accused individual, the stated facts or witness testimony all of which can be investigated.

In some circumstances it may be possible to reduce the charges, penalties and consequences against the accused individual or eliminate the charges they are facing altogether. A strong criminal defense may seek to lower fines; ameliorate the loss of driving privileges; seek an alternative to incarceration; or pursue a not-guilty verdict of the case goes to trial. It is possible to challenge a variety of different aspects of the drunk driving case which is why it is useful for accused individuals to be familiar with their criminal defense rights.

A DWI charge can have a hugely disruptive impact on the personal and professional life of an accused individual but a strong criminal defense may stand in the way of that. As a result, accused individuals must be familiar with all of their criminal defense rights and the protections they afford them.