Driving under influence (DUI) is a serious offense. If you have been arrested and charged with DUI – especially if it is your first arrest – you may be scared and confused, but it’s important to keep your wits about you.
What you do, or fail to do, following your DUI arrest can have a serious impact on your ability to successfully defend yourself. Here are some of the biggest mistakes people make that ultimately can hurt their chances of a successful outcome in your case
Underestimating the consequences of a conviction
Knowing the consequences of a DUI conviction is crucial because it’s the only way you can make informed choices about your own defense. If you don’t understand the consequences of a guilty plea, for example, you could unintentionally damage your future by going that direction.
Assuming that an arrest is as good as a conviction
If you choose to fight your DUI charge, you might win. However, if you plead guilty, you cannot. There are scientific and constitutional grounds upon which you can fight your DUI. These include violation of your rights by the arresting officer, inaccurate Breathalyzer test results or a medical condition. Pleading guilty right away strips you of the right to challenge your DUI on any of these grounds.
Speaking with the police
Most people assume that the police care about their interests when they are given the opportunity to “tell their side of the story.” Wrong. Talking to the police, especially in the absence of your legal representative, will only give the police the evidence they need to file a successful DUI case against you.
If you have been arrested for drunk driving, there are defenses available. Don’t make any decisions until you’re fully informed about your options.
