Arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI)? Here's What to Do
Posted Wednesday, September 19, 2018 by Andrew Charles Huff
Would you know what to do if you were arrested for a DUI in our state? If you or someone you care about has been arrested for DUI, you’re probably overwhelmed with what to do next. If you find yourself in this position, here are the Top 5 things that you need to do (or not do) after your arrest:
*1. Read all the paperwork you were given*You were probably given a few documents such as a breath test ticket, possible court date and a DOL Hearing Request Form. Take the time to read these documents because the time, date and location of your next court hearing could be included, especially for Seattle cases. That hearing could be as early as the day after your arrest, and missing a court appearance will only add another layer of complication to your situation.
*2. Understand that you only have 20 days to request your Department of Licensing Hearing*You also should have been provided a document called the “DOL Hearing Request Form.” This allows you to request a hearing challenging a potential license suspension based on your breath test or alleged refusal to take one. This hearing with the Department of Licensing is separate from any criminal charge against you such as Driving Under the Influence. However, challenging your license suspension is part of my representation and this hearing is normally conducted over the phone in my office as your attorney.
*3. Do not turn to the police officer or prosecutor’s office for help*Once you have been arrested, you automatically find yourself in a court system that has two sides. You are on one side and the police and the prosecutor are the ‘other side.’ As much as you may like to believe otherwise, the ‘other side’ does not have your best interests in mind – it is simply not their job to look out for you. For any questions about your case, only speak with an experience criminal defense attorney.
*4. Do not rely on the internet for legal advice*I think we all fear the unknown, and of course you are going to turn to the internet to look for information about your situation. The problem is that, while some sites have accurate information, others do not. Some sites present unrealistic best or worst case scenarios, some are outdated, and others, unfortunately, are just flat out wrong and misleading. The best way to get reliable and accurate information is through an experienced DUI attorney.
5. Find the DUI attorney that is right for you
When choosing an attorney to represent you in your case, you should choose an attorney who works regularly in the DUI world, and is knowledgeable and experienced in this area of law. DUI defense is a very specialized area of practice and you need someone with this experience.
When choosing an experienced attorney, look at how long the attorney has been practicing in this area and whether they have a prosecutor’s background to give perspective.
Trust your instincts. You need to have complete trust in your attorney and their ability to provide you the most effective representation.
The Law Office of Andrew C. Huff is exactly the right firm to help good people facing DUI charges. Please call me anytime at 206-729-3477.
