Pro se Defenses for DUI Charges
Of course, there is no hard and fast rule that says you must allow Virginia DUI lawyer to defend you in your Virginia DUI case. If you want to argue your case yourself, the law gives you that right as well.
When you represent yourself and do not have a lawyer in your employ during legal proceedings, this is known as pro se representation. Pro se comes from the Latin phrase meaning "for oneself."
Is Pro se a Good Idea?
In a word: No. Any benefits you might think you are getting from representing yourself during your DUI proceedings are far outweighed by the drawbacks of not having a qualified individual handle your case.
First and foremost, attorneys have extensive education, training, and experience in the intricacies and procedures of the legal system. Representing yourself in court is akin to operating on yourself instead of allowing a qualified physician to perform the surgery.
Secondly, the prosecutor is quite skilled in arguing cases in court, and they usually have good track records of getting convictions - especially against unskilled pro se defendants. Think of it as trying to fight a person who has a fifth-degree black belt in karate or one of the other martial arts. Who do you think would win?
But most importantly, when you represent yourself, you are giving up your right to counsel. As stated earlier, this right was granted by the Constitution for a reason; it is one of the most essential protections Americans have. However, if you relinquish this right, you cannot change your mind and invoke it later if you are convicted of DUI in a court of law.
So there's really no reason not to have a qualified, experienced Virginia DUI lawyer fighting for your rights and interests.
Bob Battle's GUARANTEE for DUI Defendants
Bob Battle is the only DUI lawyer in Virginia to offer a guarantee that could be worth thousands of dollars in free legal representation. Under Virginia law, if you are convicted of DUI in the General District Court, you have a right to appeal and get a new trial in the Circuit Court. Bob Battle guarantees that, if you wish to appeal your case, he will represent you on appeal to the Circuit Court for FREE!
To learn more about Virginia DUI, get a free copy of Bob Battle's consumer guide, How to Choose a DUI Lawyer in Virginia. Or, contact 804-673-5600 to schedule your legal consultation today.
