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DUI (driving while under the influence ) or DWI (driving while intoxicated), while both of these are specifically used to define a person who has been driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the only difference between them are how high the level of intoxication or impairment is. Higher levels or repeat offenders, usually get you the DWI classification.

Normally, when you are given a DUI or DWI, you have been pulled over for driving, or were sitting in a car with the keys in the ignition, and were given a DUI road test, breathalyser, blood test or in some cases all three.

After you have been bailed out of jail, released on your own accord or even while your are incarcerated, the hard part begins. First of all, if steps are not taken immediately to secure your drivers license, you could lose it.

Your state law usually establishes a time limit, usually a very short time limit, that will enable you to keep your license, until you have either been found not guilty, enter a plea or have been convicted.

Seek legal counsel immediately upon getting a DUI/DWI, an attorney is familiar with your state law and can assist you to prevent losing your license sooner than you need to.

In many states, the driving privilege is handled by the DMV and not the court, most individuals are able to maintain their driving privilege to go to work or keep all of their privileges until guilt has been established.

The next step involves the legal process to determining innocence or guilt. Without legal assistance, your chances are slim, of getting a fair or beneficial outcome.

On a first DUI/DWI, fines are significantly lower, loss of driving privilege shorter and legal fees and fines are less. However, even on a first offense, without representation, you could get the max fine for that offense, often times, the prosecutor, will shoot for the highest possible sentence and fine allowable by law.

On repeat charges, the costs of fines and fees, jail time and loss of driving privilege, are much greater sometimes, increased by almost ten times the amount of a first time offender.

Because a pattern has been established, using a public defender or representing yourself, puts you in a more vulnerable position, a position that leaves you fewer options and less opportunity for a favorable outcome. Hiring an attorney to assist you with finding options, assures you that every avenue available to pursue, is researched and presented.

In the unfortunate event that an accident, death or injury was incurred

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