What to Expect After a DUI Arrest: Protecting Your Rights

Everyone makes mistakes. You’re human…no one is immune to errors, and a DUI arrest can be one of those. It’s a stressful, frustrating, and overwhelming experience, but CEGA Law Group can help you navigate the situation. Read up on what happens after a DUI arrest and how you can handle it while protecting your rights.

What a DUI Charge Means for You

DUI charges are serious offenses that vary depending on your past offenses and overall criminal record. A DUI arrest doesn’t automatically mean a conviction—you have rights and options to defend yourself. When facing a charge, it’s imperative to remain calm and take immediate steps to protect your rights.

Contact an attorney as soon as possible; you’ll want to understand the specific charges against you. Charges vary depending on the severity of the offense, so understanding the crime will help you and your attorney better prepare for the fight ahead.

Common Mistakes to Avoid After a DUI Arrest

One of the biggest (and unfortunately, most common) mistakes is failing to hire a knowledgeable, reliable attorney. Handling a DUI case by yourself is a mistake because laws are challenging and complex, making it necessary and beneficial to have experienced legal representation.

Other common mistakes include:

• Talking too much during an arrest. Anything you say can (and will) be held against you, so remain cordial and respectful but avoid answering unnecessary questions. Keep responses short and precise but polite.
• Missed court dates. One of the worst things you can do in a DUI case is failing to show up. It can complicate your case, painting you as unreliable while complicating your case with additional charges.
• Being vague with your attorney. Legal representation from CEGA Law Group is on your side. This is where you can provide essential information that will help your case.

If convicted, the impact of a DUI can have lasting consequences, such as financial burdens like court fees and potential costs for alcohol education programs. You may also face challenges with your job, and depending on the severity of the charge, you could lose driving privileges—more reason to contact a CEGA Law Group attorney.

What Happens After You’re Charged

After being arrested and charged with a DUI, you are given a court date, at which point you enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. From this point on, you need a reliable, experienced attorney to help you comprehend the gravity of the situation while developing a solid defense.

The outcome of your case depends on various factors, such as your BAC levels, whether there were aggravated instances of assault or accident, and whether this is your first offense. Your attorney may be able to help negotiate a plea bargain, getting charges reduced or dismissed under certain conditions.

A DUI arrest can be heartbreaking and overwhelming, but keep your chin up and your hopes high. We at CEGA Law Group are here to fight for you. You don’t have to face your DUI charge alone—contact us for professional legal representation. Let us protect your rights for the best possible outcome.