If you have recently been arrested on the suspicion of drinking and driving, you may be facing severe criminal DUI charges. The one thing that you need to realize is that you do not have to agree to the charges that the police have filed against you. There are steps that can be taken to possibly mitigate the charges and consequences. Here are three directions that you could potentially take:

1. Demonstrate to the Court That Your Actions Were Just a Fluke.

As a general rule, the court tends to be a bit more easy-going on those who have never committed a crime before as opposed to serial offenders. You will need to prove to the court that drinking and driving is out of character for you, you understand the risks associated with such an activity, and that you are not likely to do it again. If you have a competent attorney at your side, you may be able to get your charges reduced.

2. Ask the Court for Recovery Assistance.

The court doesn't always throw out severe punishment for crimes. This is true for first-time and repeat offenders. In fact, when the court believes it can offer assistance to offenders, it may be possible to go into rehabilitation. With DUI charges, there are rehabilitation courses known as DUI diversion programs. These types of programs are designed to help individuals with their addiction and demonstrate the consequences of drunk driving.

To help your case, simply ask for this assistance. Don't wait for it to be offered to you. Inform the judge that you've learned lessons from this incident and that you are willing and ready to take the necessary steps to keep it from happening again.

3. Consider Plea Bargaining.

Another option that you have is to plea bargain. This will require that you plead guilty, but you will be pleading to a charge of less severity than the initial charge that was brought against you. Due to this, you will be sentenced, even if it just to house arrest or the aforementioned DUI diversion program, but it will not be as severe of one as you originally would have received. Your attorney can help you determine whether pleading is a good choice for your personal situation or not, as it may not be ideal for you.

When all else fails, talk to your DUI defense attorney to discuss your position. The above three routes are not the only methods that can be used to protect your rights and freedom. A lawyer (like Kayle Jackson) will be able to examine the exact facts of your arrest and case to assist you in taking the best path for your criminal defense.