DUI Attorney: The First Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Arrest
A DUI charge can upend your life — but it doesn't have to destroy it. Learn what to do in the critical hours and days after a DUI arrest to protect your rights and your future.
A DUI arrest is one of the most stressful legal situations a person can face. The decisions you make in the first 24 to 72 hours are critical. Here is what you need to do — and what you must avoid.
Do Not Make These Mistakes After a DUI
- Do not resist arrest — this adds charges and damages your case
- Do not speak to police without an attorney — anything you say can be used against you
- Do not assume you're guilty — DUI charges are defensible
- Do not miss the DMV hearing deadline — in most states you have only 10 days to request a hearing to save your license
Potential Consequences of a DUI Conviction
- Fines ranging from $500 to $10,000+
- License suspension for 6 months to several years
- Mandatory DUI school and ignition interlock device
- Jail time, especially for repeat offenses
- Permanent criminal record affecting employment and housing
How a DUI Attorney Can Help
An experienced DUI defense attorney will examine every aspect of your arrest, including the legality of the traffic stop, whether field sobriety tests were properly administered, and whether the breathalyzer was calibrated correctly. Many DUI cases are won or significantly reduced through these technical defenses.
Can a DUI Charge Be Dismissed?
Yes. Common grounds for dismissal include improper police procedure, faulty equipment, lack of probable cause for the stop, or violation of your constitutional rights. Do not plead guilty without first consulting an experienced DUI attorney.