DUI, or Driving Under the Influence, is a common criminal charge given to an individual believed to be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Driving under the Influence is a crime in all 50 U.S. states. A person found guilty of DUI may receive penalties ranging from life skills classes to jail time to fines. If you are arrested and charged with DUI, it is imperative to handle things correctly to ensure the best aftermath in the event.
Submit to Testing
Field sobriety testing and breathalyzers help a police officer determine if a person is driving under the influence. Testing is also required by law if you hold a driver’s license. Refusal to take these tests results in automatic arrest for DUI, as well as suspension of your driver’s license and privileges. Do not refuse these tests, even when you’ve had a drink or two. It is much easier to fight a DUI charge in court when you’ve compiled with the requests of law enforcement.
The Right to Remain Silent
You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. It is your Miranda rights that a police officer reads to anyone who is arrested. Heed this information and take it seriously. Invoke those rights to remain silent, no matter what you want to say. It’s only going to make matters worse when you appear in court to answer the DUI charge. Anything that you say while under arrest or in the county jail can be presented during the court case and cause a conviction or other penalties.
Contact a Bail Bondsman
A bail bondsman comes to the rescue after an arrest, freeing you from the confinements of the bars. They charge only 10% of the original bond amount, eliminating the expense of getting out of jail. A bondsman offers 24-hour bonding service, including weekends and holidays. With the help of a bondsman, you are not sitting behind bars longer than necessary nor wondering how you’ll come up with thousands of dollars in cash to bond out of jail.
Contact an Attorney
Lawyers understand DUI laws and the best ways to defend your case in court. Without a lawyer, expect the harshest of penalties if you are convicted. Lawyers attempt to get the case dismissed. when that isn’t possible, they ensure their clients get the best possible results in the matter. Free consultations discuss the specific details of your case and help you better learn the best steps to take in the matter. Never go to court to defend yourself against a DUI charge without an attorney.
