Many people don't realize the severe consequences they can face when arrested for a DUI and serving in the military. The military has a standard that if you have any alcohol in your system and you can't safely operate a motor vehicle, then they're going to find that you have a DUI.
In such a situation, seeking legal representation is not just important; it's crucial. A good attorney can guide you through the legal process and reassure you about the best possible outcome.
Not only will you face the potential loss of your license and other penalties and punishments related to criminal conduct, but you're also looking at consequences related to your military service. In other words, you could be discharged from the military, and you could be punished related to your license as well.
So, there's a whole host of penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and a tarnished record, and usually, the military will be harsher when it comes to these DUIs.
They don't want people who are unsafe and likely to drink alcohol and drive or operate any car, machinery, or anything with their employment. When you're in the military, you're obviously in a position where people's lives are in your hands, so you want to make sure that if you get one of these DUIs, you don't take it lightly and do everything you possibly can to get a good result.
Military Diversion Statute
If you're in the criminal court, I would suggest that you want a criminal defense attorney who practices in that court. But suppose, on the other hand, you're actually in a military court. In that case, you want to get an attorney who does military law, has experience with that, and understands the military diversion statute. This attorney will be able to navigate the unique legal system of the military court and advocate for your rights effectively.
You can often be appointed there, but that person is probably going to be a younger attorney with little experience.
Especially if you have a close case — you could win the case — you want to make sure you've got an attorney who knows how to fight, knows how to challenge the JAG prosecutors in a military court. JAG prosecutors are experienced military lawyers who will be representing the military's interests in your case.
Having an attorney who can effectively challenge them is crucial. Your attorney should know the ropes and the ins and out of that particular courthouse.
Because if they don't, they're going to lose, and you're going to lose severely because of all of the potential punishments.
Lawyer Familiar with Military DUI Cases
You could be facing a dishonorable discharge from the military under circumstances that will not be good for you. This could have serious implications for your future employment and benefits. A dishonorable discharge can affect your eligibility for certain jobs, your ability to receive benefits, and even your reputation.
Also, you'll want to make sure that you protect your interests related to any criminal proceedings outside of the military because that affects your driving.
It could affect your liberty and several things that could give you penalties that interfere with your military service, such as loss of rank, pay reduction, or even confinement. So, if you've got a military DUI, you want to do your research and find an attorney who is familiar with these types of cases and knows how to get the best result.
Thorough research and finding the right attorney can empower you and give you control over the situation.
