Driving under the influence is something that the government and law enforcement officials take extremely seriously. When a person gets behind the wheel of a vehicle while intoxicated not only are they placing themselves at risk, but also the lives of those around them. Drunk driving is dangerous and people die every day from tragic accidents that are caused as a result of it.
At the time of an arrest, people will often make simple mistakes that can result in lessening the chances of their getting their charges dismissed or decreased. If a person is arrested for a DUI it is very serious indeed, and because of that we want to share with you what not to do when arrested for a DUI.
Don’t treat a DUI like another traffic ticket. Being arrested for driving under the influence is very serious, and if convicted a person could be looking at jail time among many other consequences. Depending on how many prior encounters with the law a person has had regarding drunk driving will determine the severity of the charges. For example a person who has been arrested for their first offense if convicted will spend no more than 6 months in jail, however when there are multiple DUI’s the consequences increase in severity. It is important to note also, that unlike running a red light, when you are convicted of a DUI you can’t just go to traffic school to wipe it off of your record. A DUI is considered to be a criminal charge and is therefore something that can’t just be erased from your record.
Representing you instead of hiring a DUI defense attorney. This is a common mistake people will make when trying to save a few dollars, and sadly it is not a smart idea. DUI defense attorneys have spent years not only studying law, but also actively using what they know in a court of law and helping clients make their way to freedom. When dealing with criminal charges it is important to have an attorney how known’s the specific laws regarding your charges as well as specific to your state. Consider your need for a lawyer when accused of a crime similar to your need for a physician when you are sick, you just don’t want to do it alone.
Pleading guilty or no contest at your arraignment hearing. Whether you are guilty of a DUI or not, fighting your charges is your given right, and using that to the fullest extent is only going to benefit you in the long run. By hiring a DUI defense attorney, they will do what they can to investigate your case and make a strong defense for you. There are certain events in which pleading quickly is a wise decision, though most individuals don’t know when that will be, and therefore with the advise of legal counsel they will help you come up with a plan of action that is best for you.
Not making the most of your rights as an American. As stated in the 14 th Amendment , every individual has the right of due process, when accused of a crime. Not only that, at the time of your arrest it is also important to properly investigate that your Miranda Rights were properly read to you. Upon any arrest, the officer on duty is required by law to tell you that you have the opportunity to remain silent until you are in the presence of an attorney, that way if you are to say anything they are legally able to use it against you. If the officer fails to notify you of your arrests at the arrest, there is a stronger chance of being able to have the case dismissed due to failure to follow arresting procedures.
Discussing your case with anyone else other than a lawyer. After you have been arrested for a DUI, there is a lot at stake, and every move you make upon arrest is essential. By hiring a DUI defense attorney, it is their business to help you fight the charges and therefore they will do what ever they can to help you. By speaking with either those who are not practiced in the area of law, or someone other than your attorney, there is a larger chance of you receiving unwise counsel.
At The Law Offices of Adam Allen Arant we have years of collective experience as a legal team helping our clients successful combat their DUI charges, and we want to help you as well. While we can make no guarantees, we do promise to do whatever it takes to help you. Call us today for more information and to discuss the details of your case