You already made a mistake by getting behind the wheel of your car after having had a few drinks. Now, that you have been stopped by law enforcement, you do not want or need to make more mistakes.
An arrest on a DUI charge may lead to a conviction filled with serious consequences such as incarceration, fines, loss of your driver’s license and even the potential loss of your job. If authorities stop you, cooperate to a point, understand your rights and remain calm.
Resisting arrest
Additional mistakes stemming from a DUI arrest may exacerbate the situation. Please avoid making these mistakes:
- Excessive talking: Providing too much information leads to details that the arresting officer does not need to know and can harm your case. You do not want to make any incriminating statements. Simply provide your driver’s license and proof insurance. Ignore any attempts by the officer to lure you into saying more.
- Failing to listen to the arresting officer: You have been given specific instructions, so follow them. The officer may ask you to remain in your vehicle, place your hands where he or she can see them and not to make any abrupt or sudden moves.
- Boasting and being a know-it-all about the law: You are in a tricky situation, so you must behave. Do not scold the officer regarding your interpretation of the law just because you completed a constitutional law class in college. Additional charges are possible.
- Resisting arrest: Expect some serious charges to follow if you attack an officer who has stopped you. Doing so may place your life in danger and send you to prison.
It is best to control your emotions, resist saying anything derogatory and listen closely to the arresting officer.
Seeking a dismissal
Understand that a DUI charge is a criminal charge. One cannot understate the seriousness of the situation. But you want to avoid making further mistakes after an arrest. You want this charge reduced or dismissed and not to face a conviction or a series of other criminal charges for things you said or did.