If you are arrested for driving drunk, you will have a very limited amount of time to assemble your defense before your hearing in court. It is strongly advised that you retain an attorney to help you face your charges, and while one can dramatically improve your defense, there are a few things you can do that will sabotage your case, no matter what they do. On this blog, we examine five ways you can ruin your DUI defense before your hearing.
TALKING ABOUT YOUR CASE ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Contrary to popular belief, privacy settings do not prevent your prosecution from being able to see what you post on social media, and they absolutely will watch your accounts like a hawk to look for any potential evidence you may post. The best practice for social media when going through a DUI case is to simply not mention your arrest online at all.
GO RIGHT BACK TO PARTYING
Your attorney will likely tell you to lay low and not draw any attention to yourself before your hearing. So immediately going out and getting drunk again, partying, and displaying signs of public intoxication are not advised.
DRIVING ON A SUSPENDED LICENSE
If your license has been suspended and you get behind the wheel of a car, you may as well toss out your defense completely. Not only are you going to be subjected hundreds or even thousands of dollars in additional penalties, plus a longer license suspension and maybe even longer jail time. Take a taxi if you need to get somewhere, don’t drive while your license is suspended, even if you’re confident your case will be cleared.
FAILING TO APPEAR IN COURT
Not showing up to court on the day your DUI case has been assigned will result in a bench warrant being issued for your arrest, which means you will spend the rest of your time before your trial in jail, likely without the ability to bond out. This is also a poor reflection on your character, and courts will most likely be far less lenient when making decisions regarding penalties you will be facing.
FAILING TO GET A LAWYER
You may think you can handle your case on your own, but prosecutors are highly-trained legal professionals who are looking to earn a guilty conviction, and you will likely find yourself overwhelmed quickly without assistance. With an attorney in your corner, you can trust that your rights are being looked after and maintained, and that your case will be argued properly by a skilled professional.
When you are arrested and accused of driving while under the influence, do not hesitate to contact a Murfreesboro DUI attorney as soon as possible. Attorney David L. Clarke of The Clarke Law Firm has extensive experience defending clients against their DUI charges, and has built up a reputation of success in court and spectacular client service. Attorney Clarke believes everyone deserves a fair trial, and our dedicated team works hard to protect the rights of all of our clients in order to help them preserve their future.
Call The Clarke Law Firm today at (615) 796-6299 to review your case after you have been arrested for DUI!
