Common Mistakes After DUI Arrest You Shouldn't Make

According to the United States Department of Transportation's Bureau of Transportation Statistics, 1.4 million DUI (driving under the influence) arrests were made in 2010. The minutes and hours after being arrested are confusing and frightening, and it's easy to make a mistake that could put your future in jeopardy.

Here are a few common mistakes defendants make after being arrested for a DUI.

Admitting You're Guilty

You've been pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and you are convinced the officer can tell you are guilty just by looking at you. No matter what the police officer tells you, you do not have to admit fault or that you have been drinking or using illegal drugs. During your arrest, you will be read your Miranda Rights, which includes your right to not incriminate yourself.

This means you can remain quiet, which includes not admitting that you are at fault for any accidents or were driving under the influence.

Instead, be polite to the officers, follow their instructions, but remember you do not need to answer any of their questions beyond your name or provide any other information than your driver's license, proof of car insurance, and vehicle's registration. Do not provide any other information until your attorney is present.

Assuming Your First DUI Offense Is Not A Big Deal

If your friends and family members have gotten pulled over for driving under the influence, you may not think that your first offense is a big deal. In many states, a first DUI is a misdemeanor, which means the potential penalties are often less severe than a felony.

In reality, depending on where you live, the consequences of your DUI arrest could be devastating, and you could face large fines, community service, a suspended license, or even jail time.

After you are arrested, follow the conditions of your release. For example, the judge may order you to abstain from alcohol and avoid establishments that serve alcohol, or they might allow you to drive only to and from work. Ignoring these and other conditions could result in steeper penalties.

Driving With A Suspended License

Depending on where you live and the severity of the charges, you may have your license suspended for a few weeks, months, years, or indefinitely. If your license is suspended for a short period of time, do not get behind the wheel until the suspension is over. Work with your attorney or ask the judge to provide you with conditional driving privileges.

Typically, the conditional license allows you to drive to work or perform any other necessary tasks, such as taking your kids to school or purchasing groceries.

Going Before the Judge At Your Bail Hearing Without Representation

After you are arrested, you will be placed in custody until the bail hearing. During this hearing, the judge will consider the facts of the case, such as your blood alcohol level, criminal past, and whether you have past DUI convictions before deciding if you will be released without conditions, released on bond, or must remain in jail until your trial.

If you have past DUI convictions or want to ensure your bail amount is fair, hiring a bail bond attorney is a smart move. Choose a 24-hour bail bond lawyer service who specializes in bail bond hearing and has proven experience. When it comes time for your trial, you will need to hire a criminal attorney to handle the case.

If you are ever pulled over while driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it is important to avoid making any of these mistakes. One of the biggest mistakes is attempting to secure bail without the assistance of a bail bond attorney.