Branson West, an experienced and trusted defense lawyer, is ready to fight for your rights and protect your freedom.
Best DUI Lawyer in Utah
A BAC of 0.05% - the strictest in the nation - is all that is needed to convict you of a DUI in the state of Utah. If you've been accused of a DUI, don't simply assume the worst. While the Utah Justice System takes this crime seriously, a talented DUI attorney in Utah can help you successfully fight the case.
Branson West Law is an experienced Utah DUI attorney who has fought and won thousands of cases for his clients. He can build an expert defense for your case, possibly dismiss your charges, reduce fines, help you keep your license, avoid car impound fees and more.
DUI Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
While a qualified DUI lawyer is key in winning this legal battle, it is important to avoid these common mistakes that many people make after a DUI arrest.
In the United States, possessing a driver's license is considered a privilege, not a right. A common way this privilege is lost is due to DUI charges. But do not assume that a DUI charge automatically means your license will be revoked. Depending on your case, there is a very good chance your lawyer can help you keep your license! However, it is required that all individuals charged with a DUI crime request a hearing with the DMV within 10 days of their arrest. If you fail to complete this step, your license will be suspended, no matter how good your case is.
The second most important step in fighting your DUI case is to contact the court. In order to present a flawless case, it is important to follow all the rules! On your DUI citation, there is a notice that provides your assigned court information and instructions to contact the court in "no less than five, nor more than 14 days." Failure to contact the court within this time period can lead to a warrant for your arrest.
Many individuals accused of a DUI, especially first time offenders, assume that the officer has a solid case against them and that fighting the case in the court is impossible. This is wrong. Mistakes are common and many cases are completely dismissed because an officer broke protocol, didn't provide sufficient evidence or didn't show up for the hearing. Never assume guilt! In the American criminal justice system, you are innocent until proven guilty. By avoiding mistakes and hiring a professional DUI lawyer like Branson West, you can maintain your innocence.
Impound fees are often one of the most expensive aspects of a DUI charge. If your car was impounded, it is essential that you save all documentation and receipts. It is possible to get some or all of the money back, but you must have all documentation on hand.
A judge will not be impressed just because you went to AA or completed community service after your DUI arrest. What may help, on the other hand, is counseling with a state licensed substance abuse counselor.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Miranda rights for each citizen and non citizen are guaranteed by the United States Constitution. They are not required to be issued by police at the time of arrest. If this happens, your attorney may ask that any statements made to the police not be used against you in a Utah Court.
These rights include:
- the right to remain silent
- the right to a lawyer present while you are questioned
- the right to an appointed lawyer if you cannot afford one.
An arrest can be frightening and stressful. Don't hesitate to call {phone} for a free and confidential consultation or to get all your questions about your rights answered.
Even if your significant other does not testify, there can still be a case against you. If they refuse to testify, they become unavailable witnesses, but their previous statements can still be used against you. If they filled out a report on the date of your arrest, that report can be entered against you, and may be worse than if they testified at your criminal trial.
Unfortunately, the victim does not represent the government or Utah Courts. Although they are required to consider the victim's circumstances and wishes, the prosecutors ultimately represent the people of Utah and the respective cities--not the victim. They are not paid by, nor do they represent the victim, or the police, for that matter. Even if the victim, or any other involved individual wanted the prosecutor to drop a case, the decision to do so still belongs to the prosecutors.
Unfortunately, providing character witnesses won't convince a prosecutor to drop your criminal or DUI charges. Most people can find someone to vouch for them if it comes down to it. Whether or not you are a good person is not the question. You may be a valuable contributor to society, but that ultimately will not matter to the prosecutor. Their job is to evaluate the evidence and get a conviction where possible. Save your breath and hire an experienced criminal defense attorney!
This is something I hear all too often. Sometimes well-meaning cops make mistakes and sometimes they let their emotions get the best of them. Either way, this is a great reason for a criminal defense trial in Utah. Just because they said you did something, doesn't make it true! Assert your rights and fight for the truth at your trial! You would be surprised how often a jury won't believe a policeman. Do they face consequences for lying? Not unless you fight them. Make them come to court and defend their lies. You have a right to testify, if you choose, and your word is just as valuable as theirs!
Important Deadlines for Your DUI Case
While being charged with a DUI can be overwhelming, it’s important not to let the chaos distract you from two crucial deadlines. These deadlines come up quickly and missing them can result in severe consequences.
The 10 Day Deadline
You have only 10 calendar days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing with the Driver License Division. If you miss this deadline, your license will be automatically suspended, no matter how strong your case is. Unfortunately, no attorney can reverse this once the deadline passes.
The 5-14 Day Deadline
You must also contact the court within 5 to 14 days of your arrest. Failure to do so will result in the court issuing a bench warrant for your arrest. This could mean an officer showing up at your home or workplace to take you into custody.
We've Helped People All Over Utah Reduce, Drop and Clear Charges
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Thousands of Utah DUI Charges Dropped or Reduced
A Top DUI Attorney in Utah
Branson West Law has handled thousands of Utah DUI charge cases in the local court systems. He KNOWS Utah's judges and he knows the prosecutors who handle the DUI cases in Utah. Most of all, he knows how to defend you against DUI charges in Utah successfully. If you find yourself charged with drunk driving or a DUI, call Branson, the best DUI lawyer in Utah.
If you are seeking legal advice or representation, contact Branson West Law for a free consultation.