DWI charges can result in stiff consequences, such as job loss, a suspended license or even jail time. However, if one remains calm and avoids making mistakes in court, it is more likely to achieve the desired outcome. Below are five common errors made by DWI defendants.
Entering an Immediate Guilty Plea
Even if one’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is over the limit, one should not immediately plead guilty. For instance, if the investigating officer didn’t have probable cause to pull the defendant over, or if sobriety tests were not administered properly, the results of testing could be ruled inadmissible in court. A DWI lawyer in Royse City, TX, can review the case and determine if charges could be dropped or reduced.
Admitting Alcohol Consumption
While it’s not good to lie to the police, one should not make self-incriminatory admissions. If the officer asks if one has had alcohol, the defendant should respectfully decline to answer the question.
Driving on a Suspended License
If one is charged with DWI, a judge may suspend the driver’s license until the case is resolved. An inability to drive can be very frustrating, but one should refrain from doing so. If a person is caught driving on a suspended license, they may face additional charges and penalties.
Not Requesting a Hearing at the DMV
Even if one believes the judge will suspend their driver’s license, one should still go to a DMV hearing after a DWI charge. If one gives the presiding judge a legitimate reason not to suspend the license, the judge may not do so. Be sure to bring an attorney to the DMV hearing.
Neglecting to Hire a DWI Attorney
Hiring an attorney from the Law Offices of Tim Hartley is an important step after being arrested for DWI. A lawyer who has handled many DWI cases can help one achieve the most favorable outcome by looking for holes in the state’s case and by lobbying for a reduction or dismissal of charges.
Being arrested for DWI may be scary, but it doesn’t have to completely ruin one’s life. By avoiding the mistakes listed here, one can improve the situation. Those with questions or an uneasy feeling about the process should visit this website to consult a DWI lawyer in Royse City, TX, as soon as possible.
