10 Common Mistakes After a DUI Arrest
After being arrested and charged with drunk driving, it's safe to say you may not be thinking clearly. That's probably what led to the charges. But don't let one minor mistake ruin your life for years to come. Read over this list of 10 common mistakes people make after being arrested for DUI. And more importantly, make sure you avoid them!
Mistake #1. Driving even though your license has been suspended. In order to get leniency, you need to show a good faith effort of doing what the Court mandates.
Mistake #2. Not hiring an experienced attorney. Tennessee DUI law is very complex. Trying to represent yourself or hiring an inexperienced lawyer to save a little money can only end in disaster. It's just not worth the risk!
Mistake #3. Talking to anyone about your case, including police officers, witnesses, or prosecutors. Anything you say can and will be used against you. Don't discuss your case with anyone except your attorney.
Mistake #4. Accepting a poor offer from the prosecutor. Prosecutors often start with poor offers knowing they will have to work their way down. If they don't budge, then it's best to let the judge rule on potential violations of the Law by the arresting officer.
Mistake #5. Price-shopping for an attorney. It doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg, but a great defense is never a cheap defense. Be prepared to spend money to protect your future. Price-shopping for electronics is fine, but not for your DUI case!
Mistake #6. Failing to take these charges seriously. It's not just the jail time, fines, loss of license, or other civil penalties. Your reputation and career will be permanently damaged by a DUI conviction. These charges are extremely serious.
Mistake #7. Talking to numerous attorneys to come up with your own defense plan. This isn't small claims court. Representing yourself can be a one-way ticket to a conviction. Having an experienced attorney defend your case is the only realistic option.
Mistake #8. Failing to take advantage of your constitutional rights. Mistakes are made in DUI arrests. These mistakes can often lead to an acquittal.
Mistake #9. Not following Court mandated rules of conduct. See mistake #1. Always do what the Court requires or else you will most likely lose any chance at leniency.
Mistake #10. Failing to appear in Court. If you fail to appear in Court, a warrant will be issued for your arrest and bond will be revoked. That means certain jail time even before your trial.
Don't make these mistakes! The best thing you can do is hire an experienced DUI law firm in Knoxville, Tennessee. With more than 10 years of combined experience as Knoxville DUI attorneys, you can rest assured that we will maximize your ability to achieve a desirable outcome. If you have been charged with drunk driving, contact us as soon as possible to protect your license, your rights, your reputation, and your career. We offer free consultations with no obligation. Call now at 865-622-7007.
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