Salem DUI Attorney
Facing charges for driving under the influence (DUI) can be frightening. Successful DUI convictions can carry severe penalties, and it is vital that you try to fight these charges from the onset with the legal support and guidance of a Salem DUI lawyer. Dealing with a DUI charge can be a confusing and stressful experience, especially if it is your first one, and a lawyer can help.
At the Law Office of Amy L. Bingham, our criminal defense attorney understands the pressure that many folks will feel to simply sign a plea deal, thinking it will be the easiest and simplest option. This couldn’t be farther from the truth, and an experienced DUI attorney can work to defend you against these charges. Penalties involved in these cases don’t just include probation or parole. You may also suffer negative impacts on your career and reputation.
Salem, Oregon, DUIs Explained
Driving under the influence is a serious charge in the state of Oregon and one not to be taken lightly. The potential consequences involved can have a significant impact on your future, and it is vital to be aware of your rights in order to properly defend against these charges. A DUI charge arises when an individual is arrested for being behind the wheel of their vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.08% or higher.
Depending on the circumstances of DUI, the penalties of a conviction include the following:
- Jail time
- Probation
- Suspended license
- The installation of an ignition interlocking device (IID)
- Alcohol or other substance abuse treatment programs
- Community service
- Victim impact treatment sessions
- Fines or other costs associated with your arrest, an IID installation, or any court expenses
- Damage to your career, such as the loss of certain professional licenses or certifications
Because of the severity of these punishments, ensuring you have an attorney by your side the moment you discover you are being charged with a DUI is vital. At the Law Office of Amy L. Bingham, we have the experience and resources necessary to fight DUI charges on your behalf.
Hire the Law Office of Amy L. Bingham for Your DUI Case
When facing a DUI charge in Salem, Oregon, you can also face the loss of your driver’s license and even potential jail time. If your license is suspended, this can complicate your daily life, especially if you use your driving privileges for work. The team at the Law Office of Amy L. Bingham is ready to offer you a strategic approach to your defense and ensure the skillful and experienced handling of your case.
When you work with us, you can expect us to take the following actions in your case:
- Provide you with a thorough case review, discussing all your potential options and ensuring that no detail is overlooked in your case.
- Enter into negotiations with the prosecution to try and reduce your sentencing or lessen the charges against you. In some cases, depending on the circumstances, we may be able to seek a drop in the charges altogether.
- If your case proceeds to trial, we have the necessary experience to argue your defense before a judge and jury.
Contact Our Law Office Amy L. Bingham
What to Do if You’re Pulled Over for a DUI
If you are pulled over for driving under the influence, there are several steps you should take to protect your rights and ensure you handle the situation in the correct manner.
- Stay calm. As soon as you are pulled over by law enforcement, it is vital that you remain calm and polite. Speak respectfully with the officer and do not make any sudden movements or do anything that might appear suspect.
- Provide documentation. When the officer requests you to share your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and your vehicle’s registration, provide them with these documents.
- Remain silent. You have the right to remain silent and do not have to answer any questions about whether you have been drinking or what you have been up to. You can politely refuse to answer their questions.
- Refuse a sobriety test. In Oregon, it is your legal right to refuse to take a field sobriety test.
- Submit to chemical testing. If you deny a breath, blood, or urine test, your license will be suspended, and the courts can use this against you. It is generally advised to agree to take these tests, as a refusal can lead to potential complications in your case.
- Contact an attorney. As soon as you can, it is wise for you to contact a DUI attorney.
FAQs
It can be difficult to offer an exact number for how much an attorney might charge for representing you in a DUI case. There are several variables involved in these cases that can impact the overall cost of legal services. These variables include how complex the case is, how long it may take to settle, and the experience of your attorney.
If you are charged with a DUI, there are several defenses that may work to combat these charges, depending on the exact circumstances of your DUI. These defenses can include calling into question the validity of any field sobriety tests and whether they were administered correctly, any violations of your Miranda rights, and the legality of the traffic stop.
While having the assistance of an attorney is not legally required in Oregon when facing a DUI charge, they can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Having an attorney on your side who can help gather evidence to support your defense, negotiate with the prosecution, or defend you in the courtroom is of paramount importance to your rights and future.
Yes, if you find yourself pulled over by law enforcement for a DUI, it is important that you write down everything that you can remember about the traffic stop. Include details such as the name of the officer, their badge number if you can recall it, and the exact time and location of the stop.
When you are given a citation for driving under the influence; there is a notice in that document that states you have 10 days to file an objection with the DMV for the suspension of your license. Your license can be suspended by the DMV or the Court or both. A hearing at the DMV can be very helpful to your defense because the officers involved must testify which can help if your case ultimately goes to trial.
Let Our Salem DUI Lawyer Fight Your DUI Charge
If you have been charged with a DUI in Salem, Oregon, trust the attorney at the Law Office of Amy L. Bingham to fight for your rights, freedom, and future. Let our team work to defend you and seek the most favorable outcome in your case. Contact our office today.