Thinking back upon the wonderful night out you had enjoying some much
needed time with your spouse it is possible that one drink too many was
had. Now you are facing charges you never considered you would
encounter. A drunk driving offense on your record in the form of either a
DUI or DWI is the last thing you want following you around. If you find
yourself in a situation where you have been charged with a drunk
driving offense there are several things you can do to enhance your
chances of getting the charge reduced or even dropped.
The first thing you should do after your arrest is take time to sit
down and record the detail of your arrest. Document what you were doing,
who you were with, how much you had to drink, what you ate and other
details that seem unimportant now but can help your defense later. It is
important to take note of where you were stopped, what was said between
you and the officer, the names of the officers who stopped you and the
circumstances surrounding your arrest and booking. Remember during the
entire process to be respectful to the officers and cooperate without
providing incriminating information.
Immediately contact an attorney experienced in DUI cases. Driving under
the influence or driving while intoxicated cases are incredibly complex
cases and require experience in the law to get results for you. In
order for the prosecution to prove you were under the influence or
intoxicated above the legal limit they must prove that the testing
method used to gain your blood alcohol level was working correctly.
Local laws will also require certain proof as well. If the prosecution
has not provided everything needed to prove guilt your lawyer will be
able to play the system in your favor.
Every state has their own laws regarding field sobriety testing. In
some states you can choose to refuse a field sobriety test. If this is
an option in the state that you reside you may wish to invoke this right
and forgo the alcohol sobriety test in the field. It is good to note
that if officers decide to take you back to the police station a
breathalyzer test may be required. If this is refused you will most
likely lose your license. If you have an attorney available to consult
with you may choose to have him/her meet you at the station to ensure
your rights are not violated.
The last thing you want after a casual night out with a few beverages
and drinks is to find yourself in a situation that leaves you battling a
possible DUI or DWI. Take caution when out and about and having
beverages. It is amazing how little one person actually has to drink
before being considered over the legal limit to operate a motor vehicle.
If you find yourself in this unfamiliar situation don't panic. Hiring
an experienced DUI attorney that will help you face the charges at hand
will make all the difference in the world when it comes to what is
reported on your permanent record, if anything at all.
