3 Common Mistakes to Avoid After a DUI Arrest
Getting behind the wheel while under the influence is a serious mistake with even more serious consequences. However, if you’re not vigilant, the errors you make during and after the arrest could leave you unable to fight the charges. As such, if you are facing a DUI charge, it’s important to consider every action carefully. One wrong move is all it could take to seal your fate, straddling you with exorbitant fines, jail time, license suspensions, and other harsh punishments.
In this article, we look at a few common mistakes and explain how a DUI defense attorney could help you navigate the weeks ahead:
1. Posting about Your Charges on Social Media
An arrest can be a traumatic experience, so it’s understandable if you want to seek emotional support and guidance from your loved ones in the aftermath. However, taking these conversations online could make it difficult for you to fight the charges. The prosecution may monitor your social media pages to find additional evidence to convict you. As such, if you posted about the DUI, your comments could be used to challenge your credibility. In most cases, it’s best to deactivate your accounts for the duration of proceedings. However, if this isn’t possible in your situation, you should avoid discussing anything about the day of the arrest, your charges, court proceedings, and social activities.
2. Missing Important Deadlines
After a DUI arrest, you will have 10 days to apply to have your license reinstated. Missing this important deadline could leave you unable to drive for a substantial period. As such, it’s important to make the most of this opportunity while you still can. A skilled DUI defense lawyer can keep track of important deadlines, completing and filing the necessary documentation on your behalf.
3. Assuming You Can’t Fight the Charges
While it might seem like the odds are stacked against you, there’s always a chance you could have the penalties reduced or the charges dismissed. If, for instance, the arresting officers infringed on your rights or made mistakes while conducting chemical tests, and you can obtain proof to demonstrate these errors, you may be able to have some or all the evidence against you suppressed. Alternatively, if you can show that you were stopped illegally—i.e., the officers did not have probable cause to pull you over—you might be able to build a strong defense.
Discuss Your Situation with a DUI Defense Attorney in Stuart, FL
Were you recently arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs? It may be in your best interests to speak to a Florida DUI lawyer. Todd A. Kawecki is a former prosecutor with an intimate understanding of the state’s laws, statutes, and court proceedings.
From the moment you pick up the phone, he will treat you with compassion, dignity, and respect, leaving no stone unturned in his mission to help you achieve a favorable outcome in your case. Dial 772-485-4500 or head over to our contact page HERE to request a free case review.