If you are pulled over and suspected of driving under the influence (DUI), the police officer will likely ask you to step out of your car for a sobriety test. If you fail the test or the officer has probable cause to believe that you are intoxicated, you will be placed under arrest and taken to the police station.
When you get pulled over for DUI, it feels like the world is ending. You’re embarrassed, scared, and ashamed. You don’t know what to do or where to turn. The whole thing feels like a nightmare that you can’t wake up from.
The first thing you need to do is calm down. Take a few deep breaths and try to relax. This situation is not the end of the world, no matter how it feels in the moment. You will get through this.
Next, you need to call a lawyer. Do not say anything to the police without a lawyer present. You have the right to remain silent and you should exercise that right. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court.
Your lawyer will help you navigate the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected. They will also work to get the charges against you reduced or dropped entirely.
After you’ve been charged with DUI, you will have to go to court. This is where your lawyer will present your defense and argue for a reduced sentence. If you are found guilty, you will be sentenced accordingly.
A DUI conviction can lead to heavy fines, loss of driving privileges, and even jail time. It is a serious offense with serious consequences. But it is not the end of the world. With the help of a good lawyer, you can get through this and move on with your life.
What is DUI?
DUI stands for “driving under the influence.” DUI is sometimes called DWI, or “driving while intoxicated.” Both terms refer to operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
In most states, driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher is illegal. However, you can be charged with DUI even if your BAC is below .08%. If the officer believes you are impaired and unable to operate a vehicle safely, you can be arrested for DUI.
What penalties can you face?
1) First offense
You may be able to avoid jail time by attending alcohol education classes or participating in a treatment program. However, if you are convicted of DUI, you will face penalties such as fines, community service, jail time and license suspension. You may also be required to install an ignition interlock device on your car.
2) Second offense
If you are convicted of DUI a second time, you will face harsher penalties, such as jail time, higher fines, and longer license suspension. You may also be required to install an ignition interlock device on your car.
3) Third offense
If you are convicted of DUI a third time, you will face even harsher penalties, such as jail time, higher fines, and longer license suspension. You may also be required to install an ignition interlock device on your car.
When you are pulled over for DUI, the best thing to do is…
1-Remain calm
It is the best thing to do when you are pulled over, remain calm. If you get angry or aggressive with the officer, it will only make the situation worse.
2-Cooperate with the officer
The officer is just doing their job, so it is vital to cooperate with them. Answer any questions they have truthfully and follow any instructions they give you.
3-Don’t admit guilt
Even if you think you are guilty, it is crucial not to admit it to the officer. Anything you say can be used against you in court.
4-Request a lawyer
If you are arrested, you have the right to request a lawyer. Do not say anything else until you have spoken to a lawyer.
DUI convictions can have a lasting impact on your life. Speaking with an experienced DUI attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and defend your rights is essential.
Infographic Created by Zoukis Consulting Group, Experienced Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer To Help With Criminal Cases