If you want to fight the charges that have been made against you, you should definitely hire a lawyer. If it is your first or second offense and feel comfortable with receiving the punishment outlined in this website, you may not need a lawyer. However, with each successive DUI received within a five year period ( a fourth offense DUI received anytime in a person’s life is charged as a felony), the penalties will be enhanced. If you are charged with a felony, you should be represented by a lawyer. Please refer to the portion regarding penalties for more information.