Busted for a DUI – Now What?

It’s amazing how quickly a few drinks can turn into a DUI. Maybe you’re young and in college and you made a mistake or you’ve had a perfect driving record for 20 years and slipped up after a night of partying with your girlfriends. Whatever the case, a DUI arrest can make your feel nervous, alone, and unsure of what to do. Don’t worry – this guide will help you get from “now what?” to “I can handle this.”

Getting the help you need is important, but who do you turn to and what do you do? We know a DUI can be intimidating, but it isn’t the end of the world. By taking things one step at a time you can successfully navigate through the court system, minimize the potential consequences and regain your driving privileges. It isn’t going to be easy and it’s going to take time, but you can and will survive your DUI arrest.

Acting quickly and knowing where to turn will help you minimize consequences, avoid common mistakes, and get back to business as usual. It can be difficult to know where to start and what to do, so we’ve prepared a helpful step-by-step guide to lead you through the process. Of course, this advice is merely that – advice. We recommend that you consult with an experienced DUI lawyer in Tampa as soon as possible and that you listen to their advice and counsel closely.

Step 1: Take the Test Because You Know You Have To

If you are suspected of a DUI, odds are you must consent to a test to determine your blood alcohol content (BAC). In most states this isn’t optional and refusing the tests could lead to a loss of your driving privileges even if you weren’t intoxicated at the time. Unless your lawyer tells you otherwise, always agree to take the blood or chemical tests requested by law enforcement at the time of your arrest. Refusing to do so will typically lead to greater consequences than failing the test will.

Step 2: Hire a Great DUI Lawyer

As soon as possible after your arrest, hire a lawyer. Navigating through the criminal court process can be complex and you need a trusted guide by your side. Don’t just hire any lawyer out of the phone book. Look for an attorney with experience handling DUIs and other criminal charges. You’ll want one who has successfully navigated the complex roads of the court system time and time again. They know what road blocks, hazards and problems to watch out for and will help you safely find your way through the course. You want a pro on your side, someone who knows their stuff, and can fight for you. Your top-notch lawyer will help you get the best possible outcome from this DUI.

Step 3: Prepare for Court

You’ll have quite a few important matters to handle in the days immediately following your arrest. First and foremost, hire a lawyer so they can get started working on your case. If you’re in jail, arranging for bail will allow you to easily meet your attorney, minimize the time missed from work and prepare for court.

Your court date will probably be a few weeks, or even months, after your arrest. This will give you time to work with your lawyer, handle the needed paperwork and get ready. Your lawyer will tell you what you need to do, but remember many tasks have time constraints, so get started as soon as possible.

Step 4: Protect Your Driving Privileges

Even for a first DUI offense, losing your driver’s license is a real possibility. Your state will probably file two separate sets of charges: one with the criminal court and one with the state motor vehicle licensing board. Some states require an immediate suspension of driving privileges, whether or not you are found guilty, while others are more lenient. If you want to dispute the loss of your license, you will probably need to file paperwork within a few days of your arrest to set up a hearing.

If you do lose your driving privileges, carefully acquaint yourself with the requirements for getting your license back. In many states you can file for a hardship license after a few months if you need to drive to get work or school. Your lawyer will help you understand your options.

Step 5: Understand the Consequences

Consequences for a DUI vary quite a bit depending on the state you live in, how many times you’ve been convicted and the type of sentencing the judge decides to hand down. Your lawyer may be able to help you plead guilty to less serious charges or minimize your sentencing. Your exact punishment will vary, but some of the potential consequences of a DUI include:

• Loss of Driving Privileges
• Mandatory Alcohol or Drug Treatment Program
• Drivers Education Courses
• Jail Time
• Fines
• Community Service

The potential consequences sound serious and they can be, but don’t worry. An attorney experienced in fighting DUIs will know how to appeal to the courts for the least severe sentence possible. If it’s your first DUI, your attorney can use this to your advantage; people make mistakes. Don’t try to handle your DUI alone. You need someone with experience to ensure that your sentence is fair and as lenient as possible. Many experienced attorneys can help you avoid jail time, pay reduced fines, and negotiate for lower charges on your criminal record.

Next Time Don’t Drink and Drive

Getting arrested isn’t the end of the world, but it can be expensive and lead to some pretty serious consequences. Make a plan before you start drinking so you can safely and legally get home. One way to avoid the problem all together is to enjoy your alcohol in the safety of your own home or if you do go out, choose a designated driver or call a cab. A little planning before you start drinking will ensure that this DUI arrest will be your last.

Do you have any tips for handling a DUI arrest? What part of the process do you find most intimidating?