What to Do and What Not to do When Charged with DUI

By Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry  Jun. 28, 2011 2:43p

If you get pulled over by a police officer for suspicion of DUI (driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs) there are certain things you should and should not do.

What You Should Do

• Do pull over immediately if a law enforcement officer requests it  
• Be polite to the officer
• Do use your Constitutional right to remain silent so as to avoid incriminating yourself. You can politely refuse to answer questions until you speak to an attorney.
• Realize that you can refuse to do a FST (Field Sobriety Test) without consequence in California. These are voluntary tests and the results will be used by police to reinforce their reasons (probable cause) for your suspected DUI.
• Taking a blood or breath test is better done at the station than at the site of where you were pulled over; this will allow more time for burning off alcohol if you have been drinking. Refusing this test does have consequences.
• Make sure you schedule your DMV hearing within the required ten day period
• Get help from a DUI attorney who knows the laws and can defend your rights. You will need help with the upcoming DMV hearing in which they will discuss license suspension as well as your trial for the DUI charge.

What Not to Do

• Do not try to evade police
• Do not be rude to law enforcement officers, this will only aggravate the situation
• Do not fail to set a DMV hearing date (10 day deadline) otherwise you will automatically lose your license (an attorney can attend the hearing for you as well)
• Do not miss a court date. This can invite additional costs and penalties and exhibits irresponsibility in the eyes of the court.
• Do not underestimate the importance of working with an attorney who has experience with DUI defense; your rights and your freedom are at stake. They know how to strategize in your defense and can help you avoid a conviction.

If you have been charged with DUI in the Orange County area, you need to contact an  Orange County DUI lawyer as soon as possible. Losing your license can hinder your ability to get to and from work and inconvenience you for many months to come. You will also be faced with the possibility of jail, heavy fines, drug or alcohol treatment or rehabilitation and community service if convicted.

At the Law Office s Of Virginia Landry, we are experienced and aggressive DUI attorneys who have successfully helped many clients in the Orange County and surrounding area effectively fight against DUI charges. 

Contact an Orange County DUI defense attorney in our office for a free initial consultation and we will discuss your DUI charges in detail.