No matter where you look at it, driving under the influence is a criminal offense. The best way to get out of a DUI conviction is to avoid drinking and driving at all costs. However, you might find yourself in a situation that would make you risk your freedom. You need to remember that it takes a moment to lose concentration and get involved in an unfortunate accident. You will need all the help you can get when facing DUI charges. Here are a few things you need to remember when you get involved in such a situation.
Get Out of Jail
You will likely be in jail for violating the law. DUI is something you must take seriously, which means that you have to suffer from the consequences. However, you might find yourself in a depressing state if you spend the night in jail. You will be defending yourself in a case, which means that you need to take the pressure off of your shoulders. You should consider bailing yourself out to avoid the unpleasant feeling of being behind bars. If you cannot gather the amount required to free yourself, you should consider getting a bail bondsman. Getting out of jail will always be priority number one because it allows you to focus on your defense.
Hire a Lawyer
One of the many obvious benefits of having a DUI lawyer by your side is that he or she can represent you. DUI lawyers have the experience and strategies to help you get over the hump. Part of helping you succeed is by making sure that you are staying quiet. Knowing when to open your mouth is essential when defending yourself in a DUI case. Sensitive information can help convince the court that you are guilty of the crime, which means time in prison. You need to be careful with what you say in court. A lawyer will help you stay focused on getting out of a horrible situation.
Keep Track of Filing and Documentation
There are a lot of legal papers involved when facing a DUI charge in court. If you are going to defend yourself, you might end up forgetting about the deadlines. Missing a deadline, like a request for police dashcam footage, may end up harming your case. Fortunately, the lawyer will help you fill and submit the documents you need in your case. You may also convince the legal professional to meet the deadlines for you. Submitting evidence also requires paperwork, which is why you must always keep track of the things you need in court.
Handle Negotiations Smoothly
You might find yourself in a situation where you are to talk to the victims. It will be heartbreaking to see the injuries you inflicted on innocent people because you decided to drink and drive. You might even come up against a few victims who are angry with you. They will be the ones filing the charges against you. If you want to get out of the situation without a criminal record, you need to handle the negotiations well. You must be reasonable and regretful about your actions. You should also tell your side of the story to avoid any misunderstandings. Their demands might be too high, but you must remember that they will not file charges if you did not drink and drive.
Driving under the influence is never a pretty picture, but you can still find a way to make things right. With these steps, you might be able to get out of a conviction.
