People dig themselves into deeper holes all the time, especially when it comes to criminal activity. We want to help you beat the charges or get the lightest sentence possible, but sometimes our job is made harder by comments and actions during or after the arrest. In today’s blog, we take a look at four things a person may do in the midst of their DUI arrest that will make their situation worse, and we share how you can set yourself up for success even if you are charged with drunk driving.
Four Things That Will Make Your DUI Arrest Worse
Here’s a look at four things you’ll want to avoid doing or saying throughout the course of your DUI arrest or while you’re waiting for your trial to commence.
1. Talking To Police – We’ve never met someone who talked their way out of a DUI when the police had them dead to rights, so don’t assume you’ll be the first. Don’t tell them that you only had a few beers or that you thought it would be fine because you’re only going a couple miles up the road. If you admit to drinking and driving, police will be able to use your own testimony against you instead of building their own case. Don’t try to explain the situation in hopes that you’ll be granted leniency, because it will only make it harder for you to defend yourself in court.
2. Arguing/Resisting/Becoming Belligerent – Another quick way to make your situation a whole lot worse is by arguing, resisting or becoming belligerent with the officer. This won’t help your DUI case, and it may lead to a rash of new charges with their own set of penalties. You may be angry or frustrated if you find yourself in this situation, but don’t make everything worse by lashing out at the police or trying to flee the scene.
3. Getting In More Trouble – While your case is pending, it’s important to keep your head low and stay out of trouble. Much of the judge’s decision when it comes to sentencing revolves around their idea that you understand the error of your ways and that you’re committed to making better choices in the future. If you end up with more charges before the DUI is resolved, it will become clear to the judge that you don’t “get it,” and they may try to make an example out of you during sentencing.
4. Not Consulting With A Lawyer – You may be embarrassed and looking to put the situation behind you as quickly as possible, but that doesn’t mean you should just plead guilty and hope for the best. The single best thing you can do for yourself, even if you believe you’re guilty, is to take a consultation with a lawyer. They can go over your options, review the evidence and help you formulate a plan of attack. If it’s in your best interest to go it alone, we’ll tell you and point you in the right direction, but if we think we can help, we’ll dive in and help put forth the strongest defense possible. We can also help formulate a plea deal with the prosecution to help avoid the worst possible scenario.
Stay silent, cooperate and get in contact with an attorney as soon as possible following your DUI arrest. For more information, or for help with your DUI case, reach out to Avery and the team at Appelman Law Firm today at (952) 224-2277.
