Being arrested and facing a charge for driving while intoxicated can be a devastating experience. If convicted, the repercussions can be extreme. Unfortunately, it is a common mistake for those that are charged with this crime to assume that there is nothing that can be done to fight or contest this charge.

Minimize the Information You Provide the Police Without Your Attorney Being Present

Individuals will often feel an intense pressure to answer any and all questions that are asked by the police. However, defendants have an inalienable right to remain silent and to avoid self-incrimination. As a result, it is possible to refuse to answer questions until an attorney is able to be present. This can ensure that your rights as a defendant are protected against aggressive interrogation or other actions that may violate your rights. While this may not seem important, any information that you provide can be used in your case, which could be devastating for your defense.

Appreciate the Importance of Reviewing Any Test Results

As part of the process of being arrested for a DWI, there is a chance that you may be subjected to a variety of tests designed to measure the alcohol content of your blood. Regretfully, many defendants will assume that these tests are always accurate, but there can be many instances where false results are provided. Furthermore, interpreting these results can be challenging, and mistakes can be made. For this reason, it can be important for these results to be reviewed to ensure that they are accurate. To this end, it can be common for attorneys to retain expertise to review these results and the arresting procedures. 

Understand That the Penalties for Repeat DWI Convictions Rapidly Escalate

Sadly, there are many people who will struggle with controlling their urge to avoid drinking and driving. This can put them at risk of being arrested for this offense multiple times. Due to the severity of this offense, it is common for states to rapidly escalate the penalties involved with these convictions. While an attorney may be able to negotiate reduced penalties for first-time offenders, this is often far more difficult for repeat offenders as the courts may question the sincerity of the defendant. In addition to avoiding committing this offense, individuals will also have to follow any court-ordered steps, such as drug testing. Otherwise, it could be possible to incur additional penalties for violating these terms as well as losing any leniency that may have been taken in your case.

Contact a DWI attorney for more information or assistance.

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