In Missouri, driving under the influence (DUI) is also known as driving while intoxicated (DWI).…
Why Time is of the Essence When You’re Arrested for DUI – Guest Post
Getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. This is especially true if it is your first run-in with the law. While easier said than done, staying calm and focusing on the legal journey ahead can have a dramatic impact on your case.
When it comes to traffic violations and DUI, time is of the essence. Apart from staying level-headed after your arrest, acting quickly and getting the help of a competent and seasoned attorney is vital. If anything, getting the best legal representation after an arrest should be a priority when charged with any crime.
In DUI cases, getting legal representation quickly is recommended if you want to protect your rights and your privileges. Other reasons why you need to act fast after a DUI arrest include:
The 10-Day Rule
In states like Georgia, anyone arrested for DUI is given only ten days to request an ALS Hearing (Administrative License Suspension Hearing) with the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).
If a request is not made within the 10-day period, you can face an automatic license suspension. Your attorney can help you with your ALS hearing. If you want to safeguard your driving privileges, you need to act fast.
If you face DUI charges in Arizona, you are given 15 days (from the date you were pulled over) to contact the Motor Vehicle Division. Your diligence can prevent or delay the suspension of your driver’s license.
Also, even if diligence is done promptly, it is crucial that you work with a competent and experienced lawyer that can expertly guide you through the entire process.
If you behaved in a way that raised suspicion or if you said something at the time of your arrest, acting fast to mitigate your actions can help minimize the charges against you. In some cases, it can even result in having the charges against you to be dropped.
Interventions and Investigations
In certain situations, authorities will investigate before charging you with a crime. By getting legal help early on in the process, you will know what law enforcement and the prosecutors are up to.
Depending on the facts of your case, it is also possible that your attorney can intervene and convince the prosecutors to drop the charges against you.
You are Kept Informed
DUI lawyers have handled countless DUI cases of different types, so they know how different cases are carried out and what the possible complications may be. In addition, they can also readily anticipate what the “other side” might do.
When you consult a DUI lawyer quickly after your arrest, you will be informed about the developments in your case, so you will know where you stand. You will also have a better idea of what you can expect from the start of your case until the end.
You Can Build a Strong Defense
One of the best reasons you should work with a DUI lawyer right away is so your legal team will have ample time to conduct a thorough investigation and build a strong defense.
When your lawyer has enough time to meticulously review and prepare your case, you have a better chance of achieving a successful outcome.
What to Do After Your DUI Arrest
Aside from keeping your cool, below are some of the things you need to do after a DUI arrest:
01: Carefully read (and understand) all the paperwork given to you.
The police or the commissioner will provide you with paperwork that you need to go through and understand. Keep in mind that there are some short timelines when processing a DUI arrest.
Your failure to read and follow the documents and instructions provided might cause you to miss some deadlines. This can default into a loss of your license. In some instances, it can also result in some serious administrative sanctions.
02: Do not pay any citations or tickets if your charges require a Must Appear at Trial.
All the payable charges are scheduled for trial with the Must Appear charges even without asking the court.
03: Don’t sell yourself short and get the best DUI attorney you can find.
Why risk your financial well-being, freedom, and future by representing yourself or hiring an attorney with no ample experience handling DUI cases? If you were diagnosed with a medical condition that can alter your life if left untreated, wouldn’t you go for the most experienced and qualified doctor you can find?
The same approach should be used to choose the best DUI attorney to represent you. Remember that you face a serious criminal charge and can receive harsh penalties when convicted.
DUI law can be extremely complex, and if you are found guilty, the consequences can be very severe. You owe it to yourself, your future, and your loved ones to get a DUI attorney with award-winning representation and a track record of happy and satisfied clients.