If you've gotten arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated, it's time to hire an attorney. An OWI charge can affect your entire life. Many people try to fight OWI charges on their own. But, that's not always the best option to take. In fact, self-representation can result in harsher punishments for your OWI offense. Read the list provided below. Here are four ways that an attorney can help with your OWI charges.

Ignition Interlock Device

If you're worried about your driving privileges after an OWI, you need to talk to an attorney. This is especially important if this is your first OWI charge. One way to continue driving is to volunteer for an ignition interlock device. An ignition interlock device gets attached to your ignition. Before you can start your car, you need to breathe into the device. If the device doesn't detect alcohol, your car will start. An OWI attorney can help you get approval for an ignition interlock device. 

License Restrictions

If you've had prior OWIs, your driving privileges could be at risk. Depending on the charges, you could have restrictions placed on where and when you can drive. You could also have your driving privileges revoked or suspended. That's why you need to hire an OWI attorney as soon as possible. Your OWI attorney can help you avoid getting your license revoked. In fact, they'll work to help you hold onto your driving privileges. 

Treatment Options 

If you're facing OWI charges, it's time to talk to an attorney about treatment options. If you're dealing with an addiction, an OWI attorney can help you get treatment. In some cases, you can avoid other penalties, as long as you complete a treatment program. Once you've completed a program, an OWI attorney can go back to court to get your driving privileges restored. 

Criminal Penalties

If you're facing jail time for your OWI charges, you need to hire an attorney as soon as possible. You could face jail time, prison time, or probation. If you try to fight the charges on your own, you could end up with a harsher punishment. That's where an OWI attorney comes into the picture. An OWI attorney can help you fight the charges. They can also help you avoid doing any type of jail or prison time. In some cases, you may be able to get away with probation, especially with the help of an OWI attorney. 

Contact an OWI law firm like Cohen Law Offices, LLC to learn more.

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