Dealing With A DUI Charge: 5 Things You Should Do
A DUI charge is a serious matter that can attract harsh penalties, especially for repeat offenders. There is so much at stake, including your freedom, driving privileges, and your future. It remains imperative to exercise your fundamental rights to remain silent and seek counsel from an attorney.
Irrespective of the severity of the charges you face, all is not lost until a judge or jury delivers a guilty verdict. Your best way out is to secure your release from jail and begin working on your defense.
Here are five essential things to do when dealing with a DUI charge.
1. Don't Resist Arrest
If the police pull you over for probable cause and establish that you are intoxicated, avoid the temptation to argue or flee the scene.
Keeping your wits on a leash when high on alcohol or drugs is easier said than done. Still, it is vital to remain calm and cooperate with the officers. Depending on your alleged levels of intoxication, they are likely to book you and hold you in custody.
2. Call Your Attorney
Fighting a DUI charge is not easy, but it is possible. Even if the evidence against you gives you no wiggle room to persuade the court otherwise, a skilled DUI attorney can provide invaluable help.
First, the expert will evaluate the evidence against you and provide reliable legal guidance on whether to enter a "guilty" or "not guilty" plea. You can also expect your attorney to find the best defenses to use based on the evidence and the events that transpired before your arrest.
Most importantly, a skilled attorney will table arguments that increase the chances of a judge allowing your release on a fair bail amount. Note that you'll also need a lawyer if you feel that the judge has gone against the Eighth Amendment of the constitution and set excessive bail.
3. Contact a Bail Bondsman
Most DUI offenders are eligible for bail. Unfortunately, the economic times make it challenging for most people to afford cash bail. Contact a licensed bond dealer if you are in a tight financial spot or simply want to enjoy the quickest means to get out of jail.
Don's Bail Bonds provides surety bonds for as little as 10% to 15% of the total bail amount. You only need to pay a small fraction of the bail to go back home, resume work, and begin preparing for your defense. The best part is that the bond dealer will handle the bailing process, ensuring a fast and convenient release from jail. Contact Don’s Bail Bonds for more information.
4. Prepare for Court Appearances
The judge will set release conditions that you must abide by to the letter. The most important requirement is to be present during all court dates until your trial. Remember to be at your best behavior and steer clear of activities that can land you into more legal trouble.
Furthermore, adhere to the bond conditions set by your bail bondsman. The agent may require you to check in with the office every other time and, most importantly, appear in court without fail.
5. Let Your Lawyer Get to Work
Securing your release from jail allows you to work on your case and ensure the best possible outcome. While it is natural to feel stressed and anxious about the potential outcome of a DUI case, trust in the competence of your attorney.
An expert with the proper knowledge and experience will aggressively defend your rights and best interests. Enjoy time with your loved ones, and always set reminders for your court dates.
Fighting a DUI charge can be stressful and overwhelming, but you can overcome it. Resist the temptation to jump bail and toe the mark. However, it is important to be open-minded because even with the best defense, you could still be found guilty.
