3 Serious Errors That Might Complicate Your Case After A DUI Arrest
Posted on: 10 May 2022
An arrest for driving while under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) can be the beginning of a lengthy court battle as you try to clear your name. For this reason, it is paramount to take the right measures after the arrest to avoid making the situation worse. Hiring a DUI defense lawyer is an excellent idea when faced with such a situation. A lawyer will direct you on the right path to help you get some leniency. Most importantly, the guidance of an attorney shields you against further costly mistakes. These errors include the following:
Admitting That You Were Intoxicated
Police officers will ask you several questions when they stop you for suspicion of driving while intoxicated. For example, they'll ask if you drank beer a few minutes or hours ago. Unfortunately, admitting that you took alcohol could make your DUI charge more challenging to fight. It gives the police a reason to believe that you're not fit to drive, prompting them to conduct sobriety tests.
So consult your lawyer before the police interrogation begins. Ideally, your attorney will instruct you on how to answer the questions to avoid saying anything that might complicate your case. For instance, they will advise you not to admit to drinking.
Refusing to Corporate With the Officers
Refusing to cooperate with the officers can get you into more trouble. Usually, the police will cite additional charges against you if you refuse to take sobriety tests. Besides, you risk getting a harsh judgment, including revocation of your driving license for one year. So call your lawyer if you are not sure of how to respond to the police. They will guide you on whether or not to take a breath test based on the facts surrounding the arrest.
Being a Repeat Offender
The punishments handed to DUI offenders aim at discouraging a repeat of the crime. Therefore, if arrested for a similar charge again, the court might assume that your previous punishment wasn't enough to change your behavior. In this case, the judge will likely hand you a harsher punishment. Fortunately, your attorney can still help you get a lenient judgment by raising issues that might challenge the evidence presented in court.
The fear of being arrested for a DUI can make you do or say something that might get you into more trouble. That is why you should consult with a DUI defense attorney since they understand the intricacies of DUI cases. They will guide you on the measures to take to avoid regrettable mistakes.
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