Being arrested for DUI can cause you to become confused and scared about what happens next. It is easy to take steps that are not helpful after your case, and if you do the consequences can be harsh. In order to avoid making a mistake it is critical to partner with a qualified DUI defense attorney. By allowing a skilled attorney to help you with your case you can rest easy knowing important deadlines won’t be missed and that negotiations with the prosecution will be geared towards getting results that work best for you.
Four common missteps DUI defendants take, but that can be avoided include:
- Failing to act fast after the arrest. The law allows the state to take you’re your driver’s license when you are arrested for DUI, but you can ask for it back or at least ask for a limited license. However, your request must be timely, and if it is not you will not be allowed to drive for up to one year.
- Thinking you do not have a defense simply because the breath test revealed a blood alcohol content over the legal limit. Successful challenges to the breath test can be made, and the ability to do so should be examined in every case. It may be that the officer was not trained to administer the test, or that the testing equipment was not working properly. Either of these things will invalidate the test results and help you with your defense.
- Driving without a license if you failed to ask for a modified license is a big mistake and all it takes to avoid this error is to ask for a review of your license revocation. If you are not granted a provisional license your next step should be to find alternative forms of transportation rather than risk being caught driving on a suspended license. The punishment you will face for driving without the right to be on the road will only add to your legal issues.
- Talking too much is also a common mistake most drivers make when being questioned about their activities during a traffic stop. The urge to explain where you have been and that you have only had a little bit to drink gives the officer just the right amount of ammunition to charge you with DUI. While it is always a good idea to cooperate with the police and answer their questions, you do have the right to keep your answers short and to the point.
Many DUI cases can be resolved satisfactorily. Call us today to find out what can be done in your case, and let us help you reach a conclusion that makes sense.
If you have received a DUI, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in Stuart and the Treasure Coast for answers. Your first visit is a free consultation and we work with you to reach results that fit your needs.