What will happen if I plead guilty to a DUI.?

Question

I am a 45 year old female with no record of any kind even speeding tickets. I am guilty and I am ashamed. I want to plead guilty and get this over with. But is it a mistake? Should I go for the deferred prosecution instead? What could happen to me if I plead guilty besides loosing my license for 3 months in the state of WA?

Answer 1

I think you should listen to your lawyer and not someone off the internet you don't know. Even if someone with credentials answers you can't verify his/her credentials.

Go with the person with experience and the background to help you. Hire a lawyer.

Answer 2

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Answer 3

If I read and understand the State of Washingtons law on "deferred prosecution," you may STILL have the conviction on record.

Your advantage, up to this point, is that you've had a clean record...until now!

Prior to appearing in court, insure you enroll...if not already graduated...a DUI Public Safety Course! The court will appreciate your mature decision to do the right thing!

Also, if you have the money to hire a GOOD DUI lawyer...he MIGHT find flaws in the arrest process. Most likely he won't but ANY lawyer can at least provide you with good advise based upon the laws of YOUR state.

Best wishes!

Answer 4

My brother, age 35, just got his first (and hopefully last) DUI, he'd never been in any trouble before, he was guilty and admitted it to the judge and all he got was 1 year probation, 80 hours community service, he had to take a one day alcohol class, about 2 hours, a fine, I think it was around $300, and he lost his license for 90 days, not too bad of a deal, he could have gotten a year or so in jail. Plead guilty, you're already busted and the courts have all the proof they need to convict and since it's your first offense, they'll most likely go easy on you.

Answer 5

Do NOT go for deferred prosecution. It's really the same as pleading guilty. Allow a jury to determine your fate. Get a lawyer if you need one. There are so many moving parts to a DUI that you need someone to sort them out. Each component is a separate issue. Reason for stop, Field Sobriety Tests, Breath Test, Miranda Warnings, Observation periods. etc.....

Answer 6

Depending on the local laws there may be a fine and/or jail time. Judges usually are more lenient when you plead guilty and sound remorseful.

BTW being well-dressed for your appearance helps.

Answer 7

My sister in Okla got her 1st DUI,someone hit her,but she was drunk. She lost her license for 6 months,and it cost her over 1,000. I want to say about 3,000....She couldn't get to work,no car.She took the courses,there are some on-line.
In court be polite,like yes sir,dress nice,and don't speak unless spoken to! Good luck,and call a friend next time,,

Answer 8

your insurance will at least double, your credit cards will all know that you got a dwi, your medical people will know, mortage companys will know, if you get a job they will have to know. the guy that fixs my car got a dwi and months later a state trooper pulled him over just becausehis license had a dwi on it and they got him again for drinking two beers.. thats not fair, he was'nt right but it was'nt fair. it does not matter .. the damage is done kiddo and its going to take time to get out of it.

Answer 9

Plead Not Guilty and exercise your constitutional right to a trial by jury. You have the right to be innocent until proven guilty by a jury of your peers, please don't toss this right out the window.

Answer 10

Seek legal advice