What Should I Do Immediately After a DUI Arrest?

With the state’s strict driving under the influence laws, being arrested on DUI charges in Kansas City, MO can be a terrifying experience. However, there are steps you can take to give you the best chance of a positive outcome, including hiring an experienced lawyer for criminal defense. Take a look at the most important things you should do immediately after a DUI arrest.

What Should I Do Immediately After a DUI Arrest?

Cooperate With Police

The best thing you can do in the moments after a DUI arrest is stay calm and cooperate with the police. Emotional or violent reactions will only escalate the situation and potentially land you with further charges against your name. You’ll want to provide all the documents requested without providing any extra information when asked.

Stay Quiet

After an arrest, you’ll be asked an array of questions by the police as they try to gather evidence against you. Remember, you have a right to remain silent, as the information you give may be used against you if you end up in court. In legal situations such as this, you won’t want to speak without the advice of a legal professional.

Seek Representation From a Lawyer for Criminal Defense

In the state of Missouri, you have the right to legal representation immediately after being detained or charged. Seeking representation from an experienced criminal defense lawyer will be the most important step to take throughout the entirety of your case. A legal professional can walk you through the details of your charges, pick holes in the prosecutor’s case, and build a defense to reduce or prevent penalties.

Request an Administrative Hearing

In the state of Missouri, you have 15 days to challenge the suspension of your driver’s license after receiving a Notice of Suspension/Revocation (Form 2385) from the Missouri Department of Revenue. If you fail to do so within the time limit, your driver’s license can be automatically suspended, even if you are later found not guilty.

Decide on a Plea

If you plead guilty to a DUI charge, you immediately put the outcome into the hands of a judge, who may inflict harsh penalties upon you. By pleading not guilty, you buy yourself time to gather evidence and present it in the courts. This can lead to more lenient penalties, and in some cases, lead to complete acquittal.

Build Your Defense

There are plenty of defenses that can be used to counteract the prosecutor’s case. These include illegal traffic stops, improper breathalyzer or field sobriety tests, poor police procedure, and medical conditions resulting in false breathalyzer readings. Your criminal defense lawyer will analyze the police reports and evidence to create a defense strategy.

Prepare for Court

Going to court to contest your case will be an intense, nerve-racking experience. The best way to approach it is by ensuring you are as prepared as possible. This includes understanding your defense inside and out and anticipating any lines of questioning the prosecutors may go down.

Being arrested on a DUI charge may feel like the end of the world, but with the help of a dedicated criminal defense lawyer, the process can be made simpler. Contact Troppito Miller Griffin Attorneys at Law in Kansas City, MO for more information about how we can help guide you through your DUI case.

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