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Getting a DUI can throw your life off track fast. You might feel unsure about what comes next or how to protect your future. A skilled DUI defense attorney in Marin County, CA, like Mark Malachowski, knows how to take control of the situation. 

After assessing the details of your DUI case, your lawyer will develop a plan of attack. In some instances, the best course of action will be a plea bargain. 

Read on to learn more. 

Borderline Test Results

Test results that land just under or around the legal limit often create confusion. These numbers can be questioned in court, but that doesn’t always stop a conviction. Officers and prosecutors might still use the reading to prove that your driving was unsafe. Even small differences in how the test was given can affect the final number.

Taking a plea deal in these cases can help protect you from bigger risks. Instead of gambling with a full DUI charge, a lesser offense might mean fewer penalties and less damage to your record. This option doesn’t mean you’re giving up. It means you’re thinking ahead and making a choice that gives you more control over what happens next.

A First Offense With a Low BAC

A first DUI where your blood alcohol level is just over the legal limit often plays out differently than more serious cases. Judges and prosecutors may see it as a mistake instead of a sign of risky behavior. That doesn’t mean they ignore it, but it can lead to more flexible outcomes. You might not face the same penalties as someone with a higher reading or past record.

Instead of jail, you could get probation, fines, or community service. These options let you stay active in your daily life while still taking responsibility. A lighter deal doesn’t erase what happened, but it gives you a chance to move forward without a harsh sentence hanging over you. It helps you learn and recover without falling too far behind.

Strong Video or Witness Evidence

Clear video showing you swerving or losing control makes it hard to argue your case in court. Steady witness stories that all match up can be just as damaging. Juries tend to believe what they see and hear when it lines up well. These facts can make a trial feel like a gamble you might not win.

Taking a plea deal in this situation gives you something solid to work with. You know the penalty and avoid the risk of a longer sentence. It’s a smart move when the evidence isn’t on your side. You still have rights, but sometimes making a deal protects your future better than taking your chances.

Get Support from a DUI Defense Attorney in Marin County, CA

Making the right choice after a DUI charge can protect your future and peace of mind. DUI attorney Mark Malachowski knows how to weigh your options and push for the best possible outcome. When you need steady guidance and a smart plan, he’s ready to help.

Key Takeaways

Can I get a plea deal if my BAC was just barely over the limit?

Yes, many first-time offenders with a low BAC can get a lighter deal. Judges may offer probation or community service instead of jail time.

What happens if there’s video showing I was driving poorly?

Strong video or witness evidence makes winning at trial tough. A plea deal can help you avoid harsher penalties and lock in a more predictable outcome.

Is it worth fighting a DUI if the test result is close to the legal limit?

It depends on the details, but even borderline results can still lead to conviction. Pleading guilty might be safer and help you protect your record.