You can still have hope. After all, even though the authorities arrested you for a DWI, you were still able to get out of jail on bail. Now you have the freedom and the time to start building a defense so you don’t have to suffer the law’s harshest consequences for your mistake. So you hire a lawyer, research online, and start compiling evidence that could protect you.
However, even if you accomplish all the above tasks, you still need to avoid certain actions if you want your court date to have the most favorable outcome possible. Avoid the five things in the list below to ensure your situation doesn’t become any messier.
Do Not Handle the Situation Without an Attorney
An attorney knows the nuances and complexities associated with DWI laws. You likely don’t. So you need guidance from an attorney like the ones from Buford & Gonzalez Austin DWI Attorneys if you want to avoid pitfalls and further consequences. An attorney can also help you avoid doing anything that could compromise your defense, including the other points on this list. Even if you only see a lawyer once for advice, you should still see one.
Do Not Drink Any More Alcohol
Your decision to drink alcohol and then drive got you in trouble. You should not hint at any return to this irresponsible action, even if you visit a bar with a designated driver. Stay away from alcohol both in public and at home until your case has come to some kind of resolution. And if you happen to have a couple drinks at dinner, keep your blood alcohol level well within legal limits.
Do Not Drive with a Suspended License
Even if you submit to a breathalyzer test, the authorities could still suspend your license for 90 days if you fail the test. And if you don’t submit to the test, they could suspend your license for 180 days. But even if you have doctor’s appointments or career obligations, you must not drive your car.
Ask your attorney to try and appeal the suspension, or have someone else drive you where you need to go. A violation of your suspension could worsen your DWI case.
Do Not Post Anything About Your Case on Social Media
Just as you would not post anything about criminal cases on social media, you shouldn’t say anything about your DWI case. You could accidentally say something that undermines your defense. You could also say something that alienates you from anyone who tries to help you, including your lawyer. Do not talk about your situation on social media.
Do Not Miss Your Court Date
If you miss your court date, a warrant could go out for your arrest, and you could face even worse consequences, even jail time, for staying away from the court. Attend your court date, whatever you do.
A DWI doesn’t have to turn into a disaster. Stay away from the five mistakes mentioned here so you don’t undermine your chances at a favorable legal outcome.
Author info: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on twitter: @RachelleWilber.
