Getting arrested for DUI, especially for the first time, can be confusing and frightening. There are lots of common misconceptions about a DUI Charge that you should be corrected. First, you are on the wrong side of the law. Secondly, you don’t even know who to call. When you get arrested, it is essential to known which steps you are supposed to take. Being ignorant is embarrassing because you may end up taking steps that are not good for you.
It doesn’t matter whether you just took a single drink or more. The arrest is the consequence of any DUI regardless of how many drinks you had. You need to know what happens when this arrest is made. Do you lose your driving license? What defense do you need? Should you fight the arrest on your own, or do you need to call a lawyer? Knowing what you need to do will help you handle the situation better even though it is your first time. However, you need to know that the first DUI arrest is not the end of the world hence there is no need to panic. Know that a DUI can result in jail time, fines, or even suspension of your driving license. Below are steps to take after a DUI.
Take The Chemical Test
There are things you should know after your first DUI. In most areas, it is required that you take the chemical test failure to which you might be punished under the law. It is always advisable to take the test even though you know the test may not turn out well. This test usually displays a lot of information and, most importantly, the blood alcohol level. Don’t be stubborn when the officials approach you for the test because this may put you in the wrong books. From the test, the officers are usually able to deduce the level of alcohol in your blood level. From these results, they will now be able to tell whether you need to be punished or not. Never refuse to take the test because you are the only one who will be on the losing end.
Hire An Attorney
When you receive a DUI, the one thing you should never hesitate to do is hiring a defense lawyer. It is one of the critical steps you can take to protect yourself. Can a DWI get dismissed? Yes, that’s why an attorney is essential because they will be able to obtain the police reports and even explain to you in detail what the reports say. They have a lot of knowledge about DUI, and hence, they know how to handle such cases. Such attorneys know how to analyze evidence and come up with the best defense to prevent you from paying a fine or losing your license. As much as there are general attorneys that can represent you, it is advisable to hire a specialized DUI who knows how to specifically handle DUI cases.
Request A DMV Hearing
You will find that when you are arrested for the DUI, the arresting officer will take the driving license from you upon completion of the breath test. If you refuse to take the test, the officer may also take your driving license. This is inconvenient. It is important always to contact the DMV to request a hearing within seven days from the date of the offense. When you request the hearing, the DMV will give you a temporary driving permit that tends to last for 60 days, or until the day of the hearing, depending on which one comes first. This is great because it helps you move around before your case is solved. If you decide to take a blood test, the DMV will inform you of your results through email.
When you get a DUI attorney Houston, it is important to know how to protect yourself. Understanding the steps you need to take will save your time and help you handle the issue faster.