A BAC of 0.05% - the strictest in the nation - is all that is needed to convict you of a DUI in the state of Utah. If you've been accused of a DUI, don't simply assume the worst. While the Utah Justice System takes this crime seriously, a talented DUI lawyer can help you successfully fight the case.
Branson West is an experienced Utah DUI attorney who has fought and won thousands of cases for his clients. He can build an expert defense for your case, possibly dismiss your charges, reduce fines, help you keep your license, avoid car impound fees and more.
While a qualified DUI lawyer is key in winning this legal battle, it is important to avoid these common mistakes that many people make after a DUI arrest:
1. Failure to request a driver's license hearing within 10 days of arrest.
In the United States, possessing a driver's license is considered a privilege, not a right. A common way this privilege is lost is due to DUI charges. But do not assume that a DUI charge automatically means your license will be revoked. Depending on your case, there is a very good chance your lawyer can help you keep your license! However, it is required that all individuals charged with a DUI crime request a hearing with the DMV within 10 days of their arrest. If you fail to complete this step, your license will be suspended, no matter how good your case is.
2. Failure to contact the court within five to 14 days.
The second most important step in fighting your DUI case is to contact the court. In order to present a flawless case, it is important to follow all the rules! On your DUI citation, there is a notice that provides your assigned court information and instructions to contact the court in "no less than five, nor more than 14 days." Failure to contact the court within this time period can lead to a warrant for your arrest.
3. Believing the officer has a solid case against you.
Many individuals accused of a DUI, especially first time offenders, assume that the officer has a solid case against them and that fighting the case in the court is impossible. This is wrong. Mistakes are common and many cases are completely dismissed because an officer broke protocol, didn't provide sufficient evidence or didn't show up for the hearing. Never assume guilt! In the American criminal justice system, you are innocent until proven guilty. By avoiding mistakes and hiring a professional DUI lawyer like Branson West, you can maintain your innocence.
4. Not saving impound documentation.
Impound fees are often one of the most expensive aspects of a DUI charge. If your car was impounded, it is essential that you save all documentation and receipts. It is possible to get some or all of the money back, but you must have all documentation on hand.
5. Believe that community service and AA will improve your case.
A judge will not be impressed just because you went to AA or completed community service after your DUI arrest. What may help, on the other hand, is counseling with a state licensed substance abuse counselor.
A DUI charge carries heavy consequences that can affect your ability to drive, your financial situation and even your job. With a fair and experienced lawyer like Branson West, however, you may be able to avoid the majority, if not all, of these consequences. While Utah punishes DUI offenders heavily, these types of cases are difficult to prove. By avoiding the above common mistakes and presenting a solid case with the assistance of Utah's best DUI lawyer, Branson West, you may be able to walk away from this mistake with no long term consequences. Contact us today for a free consultation!
We've helped people all over Utah reduce, drop and clear charges. Look what our customers have to say about us.
Branson is fantastic at what he does. He’s honest, communicative, articulate, and professional. I couldn’t have found a better attorney. He explained every detail of how things could play out in court and answered any questions I had very quickly. He worked diligently to get my case dismissed and for that I am forever grateful. The court process is intimidating and complex, but he navigates it well and provides detailed insight as to how it works.
- Journey Archuleta, Posted August 18th 2024 on google
Branson West is the best decision I made when hiring a lawyer! I was facing a lot of felony charges so when looking for a lawyer, I was stressed to say the least! From the moment I met Branson he was incredibly helpful, communicating with me often or answering any questions I had!! He truly made me feel like everything was going to be ok, and everything was! I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome!!! He was able to get all charges dismissed! If you’re looking at this review trying to make a decision he truly is a great attorney and a great guy! Good luck!
Branson West is an absolute pro! He fought for 13 months for me on a case that should have been thrown out from the start. He absolutely embarrassed the prosecution by his performance in the court room. He never gave me false hope, and always was very clear about the risks, and I'm incredibly greatful that I trusted his expertise.
- lion-fox tactical, Posted April 25th 2024 on google
He did a good job explaining what was going on and keeping me up to date on everything
Branson is very good at what he does. He is extremely professional and has a well-received presence in the courtroom. His communication with me was always immediate and efficient. One of the things I was most impressed with was his ability to separate facts from opinion. Branson played out the possible scenarios of what I was to expect He asked me what MY goals were and what MY best case scenario was. I felt like I was a part of my own case and defense. He got the state to waive jail time. I am happy with the result Branson achieved for me and thankful I chose him as my lawyer.
- Derrick Phillip, Posted March 13th 2024 on google
An excellent experience all around. I have been working with Branson for the past 11 years and I only have good things that I can say. Great in the courtroom, great communication skills, well respected by the judges, and went above and beyond for my case. This guy is great. Definitely recommend him to anyone who needs a criminal defense lawyer.
- Adonis Jameson, Posted March 13th 2024 on google
Branson and his team were great to work with. They helped me understand the complicated legal system and we're always available for questions.
I had a great experience working with Branson. He always responded within a business day (usually within minutes/hours) and was courtius and professional at all times. Cost of representation was given to me upfront, and was reasonable. I also feel confident that he found the best possible resolution for my charges.
Great attorney and very intelligent. Very honest and trustworthy. He called me back literally with in 2 hours of calling his office. I believe him to be very qualified to represent me in the legal matters I was in. I trust him and most attorneys don’t even call you back ,but Mr. West will. Very good man.
Called Branson and left a message. Within minutes received a text that he was in court and would call later. An hour later he called, gave me great advice, and said he didn't want to charge me for something he felt I could do on my own. I followed his advice and things went pretty much exactly as he had explained. The outcome was better than I dared hope. I would highly recommend Branson West!!!
Very honest firm, can't say enough positive things about them. This is a law firm I would trust to represent me and my family members to protect our rights.
Branson is one of the most kind and loyal attorneys. He gave me great advise on a case. He took the time to answer my phone calls and texts. He really cares for his clients: and getting the best resolutions. I would recommend him to anyone in the Utah area. When you are going through a hard time----he really takes the time to coach you and listen. He is kind and I treats his clients with such good care.
Branson took care of my case exactly the way I thought it should have been. He and his team aka Hailee were and have been all I could have hoped for. I think I found him after a simple search brought his name up when he was doing an add or promotion. Sometimes things just click and this was one of those times. I would recommend him to anyone. If you find yourself in need of a fighter in your corner Branson is a good choice.
- Todd Macfarlane, Posted February 26th 2023 on google
Thank you man! Very grateful for your hard work.
- Tyrell Denton, Posted February 23rd 2023 on google
This guy goes above and beyond! Picked up the phone the first time I called, and gave me the best advice took care of everything quickly and there were no surprises. Couldn’t be happier!
- Cassia Leigh, Posted February 23rd 2023 on google
Articulate, friendly and well versed in criminal law. I’m a very anxious person which makes my speech terribly convoluted and even then he understood me perfectly. I’m very thankful for his patience and expertise, and I’m also very satisfied with the outcome.
- Salvador Villanueva, Posted February 13th 2023 on google
Thank you for all your help, very knowledgeable and attention to detail. laid out all my options very clear and met to his end of the agreement. 10/10 service! thanks again man!
Branson has handled thousands of Utah DUI charge cases in Salt Lake City and the local court systems. He KNOWS Utah's judges and he knows the prosecutors who handle the DUI cases in Utah. Most of all, he knows how to defend you against DUI charges in Utah successfully. If you find yourself charged with drunk driving or a DUI, call Branson, the best DUI lawyer in Utah, at 801-285-5550. For those facing DUI charges in or around SLC, Branson K. West is the DUI attorney with the experience to win.
