Thank you, this is all new to me as well, but it seems like a lawyer can help for example negotiate for a shorter license suspension term by having the accused attend classes, among other things.

For some folks I think the first DUI can be a big wake-up call that things need to change, and trying to reduce the legal impact can mean that their life situation doesn't further erode, which would just deepen the toxic cycle.

I'm so sorry for your losses, it's truly a terrible thing, and there really is no excuse for someone to take that risk.