3 Important Steps To Take After Getting Charged With A DUI
Posted on: 27 December 2017
One of the more serious crimes to be charged with is a DUI. A guilty verdict could do irrefutable damage to your personal and professional life. As a form of damage control, it's important that you take the following actions after being charged.
Avoid Further Controversy
If you've been arrested for a DUI and are awaiting trial, it's important to avoid further controversy any way you can. If your license was suspended after the arrest, avoid driving. Getting pulled over without the proper license and credentials will hurt your pending trial, as it shows a lack of respect for the law.
You also need to avoid drinking, no matter how much you think you need it. Friends and relationships may get broken, but at the end of the day, you have to look out for yourself. Stay away from environments that sell alcohol, and you might consider actively participating in the community. Not only does this keep your mind off drinking, but it shows the judge you're actively trying to change.
Make a Plea Deal
If you're not sure whether the DUI charge is just or not, it's best to err on the side of caution and try to get a plea deal. There are many types of plea bargains you can try to secure. You could, for example, try having one of the several charges dismissed. You can also plead to a lesser offense, so that your jail time won't be as harsh and your fine won't be as costly.
The great thing about plea deals is that you can offer them at any time. Just arrange a meeting with the prosecutor, and do your best to convince them why this deal is a better option than going through the extensive steps in court.
Hire an Attorney
If you're completely innocent in this whole ordeal, you need to hire a trusted DUI lawyer to represent you in court. After gaining pertinent information to the arrest, such as sobriety tests administered, they'll come up with a sound case for why you're innocent.
Evidence will also be gathered to support your case, which may include witness testimonials, 911 calls, surveillance video, and police reports. Thanks to your attorney, you won't have to go through these legal processes alone without representation.
Facing a DUI charge, your stress may be at an all-time high. You can move forward with your life, however, by taking the right legal actions as soon as possible. Contact a law firm, like Thomas & Associates, PC, for more help.
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