If you are charged with a DUI, there is a process that you will have to go through to get it worked out. Here are couple things you need to know about a DUI charge.
You Will Most Likely Be Arrested
When an officer pulls you over and suspects driving under the influence, they will most likely give you a sobriety test right there on the spot. If the number is over the legal limit, you will most likely be arrested.
Recognize that if you are arrested, it does not necessarily mean that the DUI will go on your record. Whether or not you get a permanent DUI charge on your record largely depends on other factors. But, you will have your picture taken and will be booked in jail.
You Will Have To Pay Bail
Once they take you to the jail, you will have an amount of bail set. The amount will be determined on many factors. Some of these might include: if any property was damaged by your driving, if you are a repeat offender, and any other special concerns that the officer might have.
You will only get one phone call from jail, and you should use this call to have someone come and bail you out. If not you will have to spend the night in jail.
There Will Be An Arraignment
Usually immediately following the charge, there will be an arraignment. This is where you have to appear before the judge to get your sentence. In most cases it is best to use a DUI attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney on your own, you can get a court appointed attorney.
The attorney will only have a small amount of time to talk to you about your situation, so at this time be sure to tell your attorney everything that is pertinent to the case. They will then go into court with you and speak on your behalf. Generally, hiring an attorney will yield more favorable results. Since they will know how to bring out the right details to help your case.
Sentences Will Vary
Just because one person got an easy sentence for a DUI doesn't mean you will. The sentence depends on many factors. You could get as little as a warning with some community service, or you could have to attend therapy, or you could have your license revoked long-term. This is why it is important that you get a good attorney. For more information, visit http://www.hogankimrey.com.
Share19 November 2014
