Are you facing a DUI charge? A DUI conviction can result in hefty fines, jail time, and a criminal record. If you have been charged with a DUI, you should seek legal help from an attorney.
Here are six secrets of DUI that Noll Law Office and other DUI lawyers want you to know.
1. If you get arrested, you will be taken to jail. If you get arrested for DUI, you will spend the night in jail. Many jurisdictions require drivers arrested for DUI to be held for several hours before they can be released on bond.
2. If you have been drinking, say as little as possible. Nearly every police officer who makes DUI arrests has a video camera rolling. It only takes one slur to convince the police officer that you are intoxicated.
3. Don’t evade or resist arrest in any capacity. If the police offer tells you that you are under arrest, you should do what he asks. After all, you don’t want to be charged with resisting arrest. However, if you get arrested, the police officer will have to justify the arrest in court.
4. Don’t answer questions until you speak with a DUI lawyer. Tell the police officer that you would prefer not to answer questions until you speak with an attorney. In most jurisdictions, you have a legal obligation to identify yourself and produce proof of ownership of the car, your driver’s license, and proof of insurance.
5. If you are involved in a car accident and someone is injured, stop and help them. Your first instinct might be to leave the scene, but that is a big mistake. Do the right thing and call the police. If you leave the scene, you will be subject to serious criminal charges.
6. Hire the best DUI lawyer you can afford. Don’t hire a general practitioner to do a specialist’s job. DUI cases demand specialized knowledge. A complete defense requires knowledge of physics, biology, chemistry, and familiarity with breath testing and sobriety tests. Don’t be penny wise and pound foolish.
Most people who are arrested on a DUI charge are not looking to endanger others, but regardless of their intent, the municipal court will prosecute these people to the fullest extent of the law.