There are often hidden consequences of a DUI conviction that are not appreciated by a defendant until after the conviction, sometimes many months after the event. One example is that a DUI conviction will result in a US citizen being denied entry into Canada. I once had a client whose fiancee was Canadian and intended to move to Canada to live there with him.
Her arrest for a DUI in Los Angeles placed all of her plans in jeopardy. It is also a major problem for people who have business in Canada and travel there frequently for work. The Canadian authorities are totally unsympathetic in these circumstances and will not allow entry to anyone convicted of a DUI, even a first offense misdemeanor.
Many people charged with a first time DUI in Los Angeles attend court without an attorney and plead guilty without considering the consequences. It is too late to complain about the ramifications after the case is closed. It is imperative for anyone charged with a DUI to carefully consider their options and consult with an experienced DUI lawyer before deciding on the best course of action. Certainly, if travel to Canada is anticipated in the future, the DUI charges should be defended, to trial if necessary.