If you are facing a charge of DUI and you know that there is a pile of evidence against you, it may seem as though pleading “no contest” and taking a deal is the best option – and sometimes it is. However, there are many situations in which the right criminal defense attorney can help you find a better way out. Contact Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 for a free legal consultation to learn what your specific options are.

The Difference Between a Guilty Plea and a Pela of No Contest

First, let us cover the difference between pleading no contest and pleading guilty. While no contest is somewhat similar to a guilty plea, it does not involve you admitting to any wrongdoing. It simply means that you will not fight the charge. This can be helpful in the event that you are worried that the victims are going to file a civil lawsuit against you, as a plea of no contest does not mean that you are admitting to committing a crime.

There Are a Number of Benefits to Pleading No Contest

Some of the benefits of pleading no contest to a DUI charge is that it assures you can skip a stressful trial, you will not have to go through the potential embarrassment of having every facet of the case made public knowledge, and you will not have to pay as much. However, it is not the right option in some cases.

There Are Many Potential Drawbacks to Pleading No Contest

Of course, there are drawbacks to pleading no contest. For example, you have given up your right to defend yourself against the DUI charge, you must face the collateral consequences of a conviction, you will be accepting jail, fines, and license suspensions that come with being convicted, and you will have a conviction on your criminal record.

Reasons a Person Would Want to Plead No Contest

With so many potential drawbacks, you may wonder: Why would anyone choose to plead no contest? There are a few reasons. First, they may not be confident that they would be acquitted at trial. They may be worried that a conviction or guilty plea would be used against them in a civil case. They may not want to deal with the stress of a trial and the information about the arrest being made public record.

Call Today to Find Out the Best Option for You

Now you are likely wondering: Is pleading no contest the best choice for me? The answer depends on a wide range of factors. We strongly suggest that you talk to a criminal defense attorney about your specific situation. You can do so by calling Law Office of Michael L. Fell at (949) 585-9055 for a free legal consultation.