Can I defend a Utah DUI charge by pleading no contest?
Some people mistakenly believe that pleading no contest (or "nolo
contendere") will somehow support their claim of innocense when facing
a
DUI
charge in Utah. Pleading no contest to a DUI charge in Utah
has almost exactly the same effect as pleading guilty, and can result
in consequences and sentencing just as severe as if you had pled guilty.
There are a few limited circumstances in which a no contest plea will
be to your advantage in a Utah DUI case. But these
circumstances are typically limited to situations in which there may be
civil litigation pending relating to injuries or damages alleged to
have been caused as a result of the drunk driving. Under
these circumstances, a no contest plea typically cannot be used against
you in the civil case, whereas a guilty plea could be considered as an
admition of relevant facts pertaining to the civil case.
Unless you are facing both a civil lawsuit and a criminal prosecution,
a no contest plea is often just another way to get convicted.
If you believe that you are innocent or have grounds to fight
your DUI charge in Utah, you should consult with an experienced
criminal defense attorney before making any plea or accepting any
plea
offer from a prosecutor.
Stephen Howard is an experienced
criminal
defense lawyer based in Salt Lake City and practicing
throughout Utah. He has handled thousands of criminal defense
cases - more than most Utah attorneys will see in their entire
careers.
Contact us
now to schedule an initial consultation.

Our criminal defense lawyers have represented clients facing some of the most serious felony charges on the books in Utah. Whether you are facing prosecution for felony or misdemeanor charges, you can be assured that our attorneys have the experience, knowledge, and determination necessary to help you achieve the results you need. Choosing the best defense attorney for your case will be one of the most important decisions you make....
Experience
»

A Utah criminal prosecution can result in a lifetime of consequences. Beyond jail and prison, a conviction can affect many areas of life, including employment, housing, finances, family, and much more. Never plead guilty without first consulting with an experienced criminal attorney. Understanding what is at stake is the first step....
Consequences
»

Never give up hope. Being charged with a crime is not the same as being convicted. And it is usually not the end of the world. While the consequences of a criminal charge can be serious, there are often several options and strategies for handling your case. Understanding your options and how an experienced criminal lawyer can help....
Reasons to Hope
»