Getting arrested for a DUI doesn’t have to be the end of your world. Depending on the actual circumstances of your case, you might be able to avoid a conviction and give yourself a fresh start and also avoid the alcohol and situations that led to this kind of event in the future. Here are some tips from your DUI lawyer in Lebanon to help you avoid a conviction for a mistake that you plan to have corrected.
Know the Laws about Sobriety Tests
Depending on the state in which you live, you may not be required to take the field sobriety tests when you are pulled over for a suspected DUI. If this is the case where you live, you should refuse to take those tests. There is a chance that you could pass them, but the officer testing you doesn’t think you passed. It’s up to the authorities to prove you were driving under the influence so don’t make it any easier for them to do it.
Don’t Discuss the Incident with the Police
One of the worst things you can do following a DUI arrest is to talk to the police without a lawyer present. Even if you don’t say much, the things you do say could be turned and twisted around and used against you later. Once you are arrested, remain silent. It’s your right to do so.
Get an Attorney on Your Side
After you’re arrested for a potential DUI, you should contact a DUI lawyer in Lebanon as soon as possible. Having an attorney working on your side right away will decrease your chances of a conviction in many cases.
Behave Properly
When you are pulled over for a suspected DUI, you should always be on your best behavior. Many jurisdictions require their officers to videotape every traffic stop and if you are belligerent and crazy, it will not bode well for your case. Some jurisdictions will record the entire process from the time you are pulled over until the time you are booked and taken to a holding cell. It might be tempting to be uncooperative, but it will just show that you are not in control of yourself and seriously damage your case.
Go to Court
If you want to avoid a DUI conviction, you should take your case to court. Pleading guilty before taking your case to court ensures a conviction, but you have a chance of avoiding a conviction if you go to court. There may be extenuating circumstances that you can explain to the court or there could be a technicality.
If you’ve been arrested for a DUI and you need representation, contact the DUI Lawyer in Lebanon at the Law Offices of Sodomsky & Nigrini. Our team of attorneys will fight for you to make sure you get treated right.