What to Do Following Your Arrest
Following your arrest for a DUI, you are probably feeling anxious and even scared. It is imperative that you act quickly and appropriately in order to have the most positive outcome possible. Here is what you need to do following your arrest:
- A DUI is a criminal offense: It is important to understand that a DUI is no minor traffic violation. It is a criminal offense that carries with it significant consequences, including arrest, fines, a possible loss of driver's license, and even possible jail time. Acting quickly and appropriately after your arrest is very important when charged with a criminal offense.
- Hire a lawyer: In many cases it is in your best interest to hire a DUI attorney in order to positively impact your case. The following list will give you more information about when it is prudent to hire a DUI attorney.
- Appeal to keep your license: If you speak with the local driver's license division, they can help you take the appropriate steps to appeal for a reinstatement of your driver's license.
- Show up in court: If you are required to post bail to get out of jail, the only way you will get this money back is by showing up in court. In addition, showing up in court is the best way to positively impact your case. Skipping your court date will only negatively impact your ruling.
- Decide whether to plead guilty or innocent: If you had a blood-alcohol ratio of .08 or higher, you will be found guilty of driving under the influence. In many instances, it is best to plead guilty, but your lawyer can counsel you as to the appropriate action for your situation.
When Do You Need a DUI Attorney?
Going through a criminal case yourself can be frightening and frustrating, and many people find it worth the price paid to have a competent attorney on their side throughout the process. It is not always essential that you have an attorney, however, and the following list outlines some scenarios in which a DUI attorney is a good idea:
- If this is not your first offense: A second or third DUI charge is a very grave matter, and you will be facing serious consequences. In order to get the most help and legal counsel possible, it is recommended that you hire an attorney to navigate this serious matter with you.
- If you are pleading innocent: If you believe that a mistake has been made and you have been falsely accused, you most likely wish to plead innocent to your DUI charge. However, without the help of an attorney, you will be unsuccessful in this endeavor. Hiring an attorney will make this battle more likely to end in your favor.
- If someone was hurt or killed as a result of your DUI: In any case where more charges will be filed or a lawsuit is possible, it is prudent to hire DUI lawyers like Fischer & Putzi to keep your out of jail and to protect you as much as possible.