If you are stopped and suspected of driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated it is critical to remain calm and understand your rights under the law. Having a clear knowledge of what is legally required of you and conversely what you are not legally required to submit to is essential in any dealings with law enforcement. In an ideal world you would have legal representation available at any time you are required to interact with local or state police officers, this is not however feasible or realistic so it is vital to remember some tips and advice from a DUI attorney.
Critically it is important not to incriminate yourself before an officer may even suspect you have had too much to drink. Do not offer excuses or explanations to the police as soon as you are stopped, if you mention having "a couple of drinks" what may have been a routine traffic stop could become a drunk driving stop very quickly. A DUI attorney would advise you to remain calm and courteous and comply with the elements of the traffic stop you are legally required to. If you are in charge of a vehicle you have a legal obligation to provide proof that you are doing so legally, drivers license, registration and insurance information are all items you must be able to provide when asked to do so. You are not however required to offer further information if you do not feel comfortable doing so.
A DUI attorney would advise that if you have any concern for your level of sobriety that you should refuse a breathalyzer or field sobriety test, you do not have to offer an explanation as to why you are refusing just that you are perfectly within your rights to do so. In most cases this will lead to an arrest under suspicion of a DUI or DWI offense, it will also however allow you time to compose yourself before you are required to prove sobriety and also allow you to get in contact with a DUI attorney.
Having legal representation present while law enforcement conducts an interview or questioning session is one of the most important rights to reserve. It is practically impossible for the laymen to understand the full extent and intricacies of the law and an experienced attorney can ensure your rights are represented full and fairly. In many cases police officers will ask questions you are not required to answer and without an attorney present to advise you whether to answer or not it can difficult to know.
Remember to be mindful of the rights and protections guaranteed to you as an American citizen and retain the advice of a qualified DUI attorney and the potential stress of an arrest can be lessened considerably.
{ 0 comments... read them below or add one }
Post a Comment