Minneapolis DWI Lawyer Kirk Anderson
Make no mistake, a DWI charge is a serious offense, and one that will stay with you on your record long after the criminal punishments are over. However, some may think their defense case is kind of a lost cause. You were indeed driving while intoxicated when arrested, so how much can your defense attorney really do? However, while you may be offered a plea deal by the prosecution, there are a few very important things to consider. Remember, if you’ve been charged with DWI, it is important to contact DWI attorney Kirk Anderson.
To Plea Deal is to Admit Guilt
A plea deal is to essentially admit you are guilty of a crime without the need for a lengthy trial. In doing so, you are offered a reduced punishment for that crime. However, it will appear on your record regardless. Often, prosecutors may offer first time offenders something light such as probation, but they will find that the DWI that is now on their record will affect their lives when it comes to applying for employment or even housing. Never regret not fighting for not only your freedom, but your reputation as well.
Be Flexible With Your Negotiations
Not all plea deals are bad things or some trick by the prosecution. Your lawyer should be candid with you about your chances if you go to court. If you have multiple DWIs on the record, your chances of escaping without exponentially harsh punishment become slim and it may be wise to deal if offered. That being said, you have to be willing to compromise a little. There is no chance of plea deal where you get no punishment, but if you go into the meeting respectfully and non-combative, you and your lawyer may be able to reach a reasonable agreement.
Do Not Admit Guilt
When plea dealing, the only way you should admit your guilt is by signing the plea deal itself if the terms are agreeable. In some cases, those offered a plea deal for a DWI end up too excited and give up information they probably should not have. Your admission of guilt in front of prosecutors can’t be used as evidence, but often it can give prosecutors the knowledge they need to convict.
Beware of Tricks
If you are at your court date, very nearly ready to head into the courtroom, but are suddenly offered a plea deal, you should be cautious. Likely your lawyer will already be trying to figure out why the offer has shown up. While it is the prosecutor’s job to let the truth convict or exonerate you, they typically don’t like to lose and plea dealing can be a way of preventing that. Common in situations where a court date is upon us and a plea deal arrives is the fact that the arresting officer can’t be at your court date. Without their testimony, it makes a DWI case weaker for the prosecution and as such they may try to still get that win through a plea deal.
A Deal May Not Be Accepted
Just because you came to an agreement with the prosecutor doesn’t mean that deal is ironclad. It still will need to be approved by the judge. If they feel the punishments in the plea are too lenient for the crime, as can be the case with frequent DWIs or DWIs where someone was badly hurt, they can reject the plea bargain.
Need Help? Contact Kirk Anderson Today
Have you been arrested for a DWI in Minnesota? No matter whether it was your first time or your fifth arrest, we can help you. Contact us today to see how the Anderson Law Firm can help keep you from facing unfair punishments.
DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this article does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Please contact attorney Kirk Anderson for an initial consultation.