Wet reckless is just another name for being charged with reckless driving while under the influence of alcohol. However, rarely is someone arrested for wet reckless right away. Usually, a person is faced with a DUI conviction and then offers a plea deal with the prosecution to have it decreased to a wet reckless instead. There are multiple benefits of accepting a wet reckless plea deal, as it frequently entails paying less in fines and a minimal sentence behind bars (if required at all). Here we have talked further about what you must know regarding a DUI and wet reckless charge, and why you may want to agree to a plea deal if they are offered one:
When Wet Reckless is Offered
Rarely is a wet reckless plea deal offered to someone who isn’t a first-time DUI offender. In the eyes of the prosecution, those who didn’t learn their lesson the first time, shouldn’t be given leniency. Unfortunately, a DUI charge still carries a great amount of stigma and judgement. And sometimes, the court enforces overly harsh punishments for a DUI when maybe the person was just over the BAC limit and hadn’t harmed anyone while on the road.
There are times when a person deserves a decreased charge, which is why obtaining legal representation is so essential. An attorney can fight for the person’s behalf when a simple mistake was made that led to no harm against property or persons.
Advantages of Pleading to Wet Reckless
A wet reckless doesn’t carry the same level of stigma as a DUI. If an employment opportunity involves operating a vehicle, having a wet reckless instead of a DUI could enable you to keep your job. Those with a wet reckless conviction may not have to spend any time in jail, which means there is much less risk of getting fired or having to quit your job due to being away for a period of time.
The probation for wet and reckless is about 1-2 years, while a DUI is on average 3-5 years. It isn’t uncommon for DUI offenders to be required by the court to take a DUI class, or a series of them over the course of months or years. With a wet reckless, having to complete a course may or may not be necessary. Also, pleading to a wet reckless can save you a significant amount of money. With a DUI, fees can add up to thousands of dollars.
Hiring Legal Representation
To fight a DUI charge, it often requires getting assistance from an experienced attorney who has worked in criminal defense cases before. There is an art and strategy to negotiating with the prosecution to reach a favorable plea bargain. It is highly discouraged for a person to represent themselves in court. And in fact, a person may have to obtain legal representation anyway depending on where they live. A Wythe County, VA speeding ticket lawyer can analyze your DUI arrest, investigate further, and offer advice as to how to get the wet reckless plea deal.
Thanks to The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt for their insight into criminal defense and what you need to know about DUI and wet reckless charges.