If you've been arrested for a crime you didn't commit, you need to defend your legal rights. You have the right to an attorney who can help you present your case. After being wrongly accused of something myself, I learned quickly how to navigate the legal avenues to have my case dismissed. My attorney was a great resource for building the case, and because of my understanding of the law, it worked. I created this site to share what I learned along the way and some other great tips for others who have been wrongly accused and arrested for a crime.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is a routine criminal charge that millions of people face each year. Unfortunately, if you are convicted of this charge, you could face far-ranging penalties and repercussions. While a defense attorney can help you navigate the legal process to minimize damage, some people make a couple of critical mistakes when they have been pulled over for this offense. By following these two tips, you may be able to help your attorney better represent you when it comes time for court.
Avoid Answering Unnecessary Questions
It is standard procedure for a police officer to ask a drive numerous questions. However, these questions are almost never just mindless small talk. If the officer suspects you have been drinking, they may be attempting to get you to admit to leaving a bar recently. As a result, you should typically avoid answering any questions that can directly implicate you with drinking.
While the police officer may become annoyed by your lack of cooperation, it should be noted that a person is perfect within their legal rights to avoid incriminating themselves. As a result, there can be no further charges or penalties resulting from a person's refusal to answer potentially self-incriminating questions.
Avoid Declining A Breathalyzer Test
You may have a right to refuse addressing certain questions, but you should never refuse to submit to a breathalyzer test. Many states and communities have passed laws that impose harsh penalties on those that refuse to undergo this type of testing. The penalties can range from fines to the revocation of your license. Interestingly, if you are found guilty of driving under the influence and you refused a breathalyzer, your penalties may be increased.
To avoid penalties, you should submit to the breathalyzer and plan to contact an attorney from a firm like Crosby Legal, PLLC as soon as possible. While the results of this test can be damaging, it may still be possible for your attorney to negotiate a lesser penalty for you. By refusing, you expose yourself to harsher penalties, and your attorney may not have as much freedom for legal maneuvers on your behalf.
Having a few drinks at a bar or restaurant is a routine event for most people. However, if you have too much to drink and try to drive a car, you can be opening yourself up to severe criminal charges. By following these two tips, you may be able to help your attorney better represent you during the legal proceedings.
Share11 December 2014
