If you end up seeing red and blue lights in your rearview mirror after a night on the town, you’re probably wondering what steps you should take next. Although everybody’s specific situation is different, there are a couple things you should always do after an arrest for DUI in the Twin Cities or the surrounding areas. We cover those bases in today’s blog.
What To Do After A DUI Arrest
Here are some tips to keep in mind if you’ve been arrested and charged with driving under the influence.
1. Only Share Necessary Information – Anything you say to the officer can be used against you in the court of law, so if you admit to drinking four beers or you say you only did a couple of shots, you’re handing over admissible evidence to the police. Don’t build their case for them. Give them your license and insurance information, but don’t answer any questions pertaining to your alcohol consumption that night.
2. Call A Lawyer – If you are arrested for a serious crime, the single best thing you can do is to call a criminal defense lawyer. Not only can they get you out of jail, but they can start building your case so you can beat the charges. If it appears to be an open and shut case, an attorney can help direct you to some substance abuse courses and may be able to negotiate a reduced charge or sentence with the court. You may not need a lawyer for a speeding ticket, but you’ll want one if you’ve been charged with a DUI.
3. Stay Out Of Trouble – Understanding the consequences of your actions and your mistakes goes a long way in the eyes of the court, so if you get in more trouble while you’re waiting for your DUI court date, it’s not going to reflect well on your character, and odds are you won’t receive any leniency from the judge. Lay low for a bit, and consider entering a substance abuse class on your own accord to show the court that you take the charges seriously and you want to change your habits.
4. Avoid Social Media – Similar to the first point, anything you share on social media is admissible during your case. This means you should avoiding talking about your case or the night in question, but you’ll also want to avoid situations where a friend or family member shares a photo of you that casts you in a poor light. If you get a DUI on a Friday and a friend posts pictures of you passed out drunk on a Saturday, it could hurt your case.
For more information on what you should do after a DUI arrest in Minnesota, contact the lawyers at Appelman Law Firm today!
