If you are facing your first DUI charge, it can be a daunting and stressful time. You may be wondering what will happen next, what you should do next, and how you can get through the entire process quickly and return to normal life. During the process however, here are four things you should never do if you are accused of a DUI:
Confess to avoid a trial
Being arrested and charged with a DUI may feel like the end of the line, but it’s not. Many police officers may try and get you to confess to being under the influence of alcohol and provide details of your intoxication to expedite the processing of any criminal charges against you. However, remember that you have the right to remain silent, and providing a confession won’t do you any favors in the short or long term.
Forget that you are innocent until proven guilty
Once you are charged with a DUI, you may forget that being charged isn’t the same thing as being convicted. The prosecution will have to prove that you are guilty, and provide extensive evidence to that fact. Just because you have been charged doesn’t make you a criminal and doesn’t mean that you will be punished to the fullest extent of the law.
Ignore what comes next
Things will move very quickly once you are charged with a DUI. Not thinking one step ahead of the prosecution will put you at a terrible disadvantage right from the start. While the list of things you have to do seem to be piling up, be sure that the first thing you do is hire an experienced and trusted lawyer experienced in criminal law and DUIs. Once you have a lawyer on board, they will be able to walk you through your options, the evidence, and any possible contingencies.
Forget to Ask Your Lawyer the Right Questions
Since there are probably a million questions running through your head, don’t forget to ask the right questions. While your attorney will go over all the important details of your case with you, don’t forget to ask them these questions as well:
- Will I go to court?
- How much will this case cost?
- The police didn’t require me to take a blood/urine test, is this important?
- Will I lose my job?
- How can I avoid a conviction
The legal system can be a tricky maze for those who are being accused of their first DUI. Finding the best DUI lawyer and following their counsel will always be your best line of defense and offense in helping you navigate through the legal proceedings to come and help your life return to normal.
