If you have been charged with a DWI, one question on your mind is probably, “how can I avoid jail time?” There are many aspects that go into answering that question. Avoiding jail time depends on past offenses and the degree of the current DWI offense.  While those are factors that contribute to the charge and ultimately whether you are convicted or not, there are three keys that can help your case.

A Strong Defense

The best way to lessen the likelihood of serving jail times is by getting the case dismissed by a strong defense. This can happen by filing motions to suppress or even proceeding with the trial and being found not guilty by the jury.

Plea Bargaining

The goal of a plea bargain is to reduce or eliminate as many consequences as possible. By hiring an experienced lawyer, you can discuss your options in regard to plea bargains. They can be effective when your lawyer identifies and demonstrates the strength of the defense or weaknesses in the prosecutor’s case. By doing so, a defense lawyer may be able to persuade the prosecuting attorney to dismiss or significantly reduce the charges.

Pre-sentencing Rehabilitation

As the one on trial, you will need to demonstrate that you are willing to take responsibility for your actions. An effective way to demonstrate this is to place yourself in a rehabilitation program before your sentencing hearing. This shows the Court that you are willing to address any behavioral problems that led to your DWI charge and to ensure that you are not going to be a repeat offender.

In the case of a DWI charge, it is best to consult an experienced lawyer who can help you make the best decisions about your case. The lawyers at Castronovo & McKinney LLC are dedicated to providing the best legal defense for those charged with Driving While Intoxicated.