DUI. It’s a scary term, and for good reason. After all, a full 29% of car deaths are related to alcohol. Beyond the obvious danger of drunk driving, for some, there is also the real fear of a drunk driving arrest and conviction.
It’s a serious issue, with serious consequences, but what can be done in your defense if you’re charged? How to get out of a DUI without a conviction is not a question you want to have to worry about–but what if you do?
Keep reading to find out the best steps to take if you find yourself in this position.
Consequences of a DUI Conviction
Even for a misdemeanor first offense, a DUI conviction could mean a fine or jail time. These are often slightly more lenient than for the first offense, and increase after that. But these aren’t the only things to worry about.
If a person has been charged for the infringement of open container law Michigan, the consequences could be worse.
According to Gordon Thompson DUI & Criminal Attorney, a DUI may result in not being able to legally drive for period of time, having court-ordered appointments that could interfere with your career, and being limited to driving only vehicles that can test your alcohol level before starting.
If there are other charges, such as those involved when a person causes injury or death to another, the consequences are more severe.
How to get out of a DUI
What can be done to establish your best defense? The very most important step to take immediately is to hire a lawyer. They have the experience and have seen countless cases before yours.
A good defense lawyer can go over the details of your case and help you pick out the most relevant defense tactics, many of which you’re likely unaware.
Some common considerations include making the case that the traffic stop itself was unwarranted (which is actually a violation of the 4th amendment of the Constitution!), that the breathalyizer reading was inaccurate, or that the police officer didn’t follow procedure.
Lawyers will be well-versed in what exactly the police are allowed to do and not do, what constitutes a legal stop, what the local laws are, and they can help you form your best possible case.
Steps You Can Take on Your Own
Despite what you might want to believe, these are actually quite limited. If you are pulled over, you have every right to decline a breathalyzer test and request a blood or urine test.
This is slightly risky, however. Ideally, the officer might not want to deal with the delay, and in the best case scenario, could just decide it’s not worth it to continue the potential arrest. On the other hand, if you find yourself in court, a judge may wonder why you refused.
Other things you can do later include trying to jog your memory for details of the encounter (by going back and taking pictures, for example), getting your car checked for potential issues which may cause an irregular path in the lane, and letting your lawyers see your medical records.
Get a Good Lawyer
How to get out of a DUI really boils down to one crucially important step: hire an experienced law firm to help you get the very best outcome. It’s good to be aware of your rights, as well as the police officer’s rights. But don’t try to fight this on your own. And drive safe.
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