After having a couple of drinks and enjoying the day, the last thing you want to happen is to get arrested. But the police stopped you, and now you are being charged with drunk driving. DUI is a severe crime; unfortunately, many people make more mistakes following their arrest, worsening their situation.
If you do not want to aggravate your charges further, avoid making the following mistakes:
- Talking too much
People who are under stress may be unable to think clearly. Many think they can talk their way out of a DUI charge and then end up saying incriminating statements.
However, anything you say while under arrest can be used against you in court. It is safer to exercise your right to remain silent until your lawyer is present.
- Failing to comply with license suspension requirements
After a DUI arrest, the police officer will likely take your driver’s license and hand you a temporary driver’s permit. With a suspended license and a temporary one valid only for 30 days, you will want to reinstate your driving privileges. Driving without a valid license may result in additional penalties.
Following a DUI, you may need to wait for the suspension to end, follow any court orders such as serving time in jail, and pay fines.
- Pleading guilty right away
There are several elements that might affect your case, such as an inaccurate breathalyzer test. Even if you were apprehended for drunk driving, you are not automatically guilty and still have the right to appeal a DUI charge during your court hearing.
However, pleading guilty renounces your opportunity to dispute your charges. You may have no other option but to comply with the charges and fines brought against you.
- Ignoring court dates
Missing a court date or other important deadlines is never a good idea. For instance, arriving late for a court hearing is disrespectful and could influence the judge’s opinion of you. Worse, if you miss your hearing, the judge will likely issue a bench warrant authorizing law enforcement to apprehend you and bring you to court.
A DUI arrest can hurt your livelihood, finances and public image. You do not want to make any mistakes. Treat law enforcement with respect, remember to meet deadlines and consider consulting an attorney if you can.