A DUI Arrest And What Comes Next
When you see the blue and red flashing lights behind you before getting pulled over, it can feel like your heart drops down into your stomach. If you’re arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, things just seem to get worse from there. Fortunately, what you do after a DUI arrest can play a significant role in whether or not the charge sticks. Here’s what you need to know.
Do Not Resist Officers and Do Not Answer Questions
When you’re arrested, you’ll be cuffed and placed into the back of a police cruiser. Whether you’re sober and believe you were arrested in error, you do not have the right to resist arrest. Allow the police to do their job. Also remember that you do not have to answer any questions and if you do, your words may be twisted and used against you. Instead, remain silent or say “No comment.”
Contact Your Attorney as Soon as Possible
If you do not contact an attorney right away, at some point, one will be appointed to you. However, this may take a long time, meaning that you may be in custody for longer than you wish. During that time, you’ll also be missing out on important advice regarding your situation. Instead, contact an experienced DUI defense lawyer as soon as you can in order to learn what you need to do to protect your rights after an arrest.
Schedule a Hearing with the DHSMV
The officer who arrested you should have provided you with a DUI citation, which also serves as a temporary driver’s license for 10 days. You will have to schedule a hearing with the Division of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles in order to petition for your license not to be suspended, which is completely separate from your criminal trial. If you do not schedule and attend this hearing within 10 days, your license will automatically be suspended.
How Attorney Leah H. Mayersohn, Esq. Can Help
At Fort Lauderdale Criminal Defense, Attorney Leah H. Mayersohn, Esq. understands the special challenges you face after being arrested for drinking and driving. She’ll go to bat for you in Florida’s complicated legal system and will work hard to see that the charges against you are reduced or dropped entirely. Don’t wait — when your future is on the line, you must act quickly. Call today for more information or to schedule a consultation at 954-400-5000.
I think it’s great that you explained the importance of quickly finding a lawyer so that you can better understand what needs to be done to protect your rights following your arrest. My uncle was arrested when police found marijuana in the back seat of his car, and he’d like to find a way to avoid going to jail since he needs to work in order to support his newborn daughter. Hiring an attorney may allow him to learn more about his rights.
I’m glad you talked about DUI arrests and how to avoid making your case worse! I believe getting arrested should be very frightening and stressful. Personally, I think it’d be wise to know what to do during this type of legal situation, so I’ll be sharing your tips with everyone! Thank you for explaining why it’s a must to call a lawyer as soon as you get the chance!