As a driver, DUI charges can affect your life in many ways. Your license could be suspended, and if you have multiple offenses, you may be doing some time in jail. The consequences of a DUI charge don’t have to be so harsh, though, if you respond the right way.
Don’t Act Suspicious
Seeing those flashing lights in the rear-view mirror may cause some concern, but you need to remain calm and not act suspicious. Otherwise you may raise some red flags, and the officer may ask you to get out of the car and take a field sobriety test. Pull over properly and make sure you are on the side of the road at a safe distance.
You also need to stay in your car and keep your hands in plain sight. Do exactly as the officer tells you to do, but make sure to not admit any guilt. Most law enforcement vehicles today have cameras mounted on the dash so your behavior will be documented.
Seek Help from a DUI Attorney
If you are not looking to plead guilty to the DUI charge, you will need help from a DUI attorney in Federal Way. An important reason to hire one of these professionals is to reach a plea bargain. This helps lessen the severity of the charge. For example, the DUI charge may be lessened to reckless driving. Plea bargaining becomes an option if the results from your sobriety test are inconclusive, and you were a model citizen during the police screening.
You also have the option of sentence bargaining. This is where you and the DUI lawyer in Federal Way try to get a shorter period of incarceration. This option is ideal for individuals who have had more than one DUI charge in the past or may have injured someone as a result of their drunk driving. Consult with your attorney to see which options are best for you.
Staying proactive during these legal troubles is important for the long-term. Find out what type of strategy a DUI attorney can come up with to help ease this situation for yourself and your family. Brighter days are ahead if you are willing to make a change for the better.
Sources
DUIs: When Do You Need a Lawyer?, nolo.com
Do You Need a Drunk Driving Attorney?, verywell.com
