If you have recently been charges with a DWI (driving while intoxicated) offense, you may understandably feel overwhelmed and stressed out about the situation. After all, having a DWI or several DWIs on your record can have serious consequences. One of the things you may be thinking about is whether or n not you should contact and hire a DWI defense attorney to help you out with the situation. Get to know some of the reasons you may want to hire a DWI defense attorney so you can decide what course of action is best for you and your particular circumstances. 

You Have Had More Than One DWI

One of the biggest reasons to hire an attorney when you are facing DWI charges is if you already have a DWI or similar charge on your record. Driving while intoxicated or driving under the influence are serious charges to begin with. They only get more serious the more times you face such charges. 

With each subsequent charge the penalties are greater, including serious fines and jail time. When you are facing a second, third, or other DWI charge, always work with an attorney to face and fight those charges. They may be able to get the charges dismissed or help you to negotiate a plea deal that will keep you out of jail. 

You Have Additional Charges

Sometimes, when a person has DWI charges, they also face additional charges. Evading arrest is a common additional charge if the person refuses to pull over right away. Aggravated charges are also possible if you were combative or belligerent when you were arrested.

When you have more than just a straightforward DWI charge, it is important that you seek out legal representation, particularly if the offense was an aggravated one. These additional charges all carry their own penalties and consequences that can be just as severe as the charges for the DWI. 

You Do Not Plan to Take a Plea

There are two courses of action that you can take when you are facing a DWI charge. You can choose to take a plea agreement offered to you by the prosecutors or you can go to trial. If you do not plan to take a plea deal and want to fight your case by going to trial, you absolutely need to hire an attorney to help you. Representing yourself in a trial will leave you at a decided disadvantage against a professional prosecutor.

Now that you know a few of the reasons you should hire a DWI defense attorney, you can be sure you are doing what is best for your particular case.