If you were recently arrested and charged with a DUI or DWI in Virginia, it is imperative to understand that you still have a chance to either get your charges reduced, or even your case dismissed altogether. However, you must avoid making certain mistakes which could jeopardize your chances of obtaining favorable results in your case.
The following are the most common mistakes that may negatively impact your pending DUI case:
- Plead guilty. People often assume that since they blew over the legal limit (or if their blood tested over the limit), then they can’t win their case. However, these tests may be inadmissible in court, depending on the situation. If they are admissible, they cannot be used against you. Furthermore, there may be a chance that the officer failed to establish probable cause to arrest you for drunk driving, which means that all evidence after the stop – including tests – is excluded.
- Make incriminating statements. If you are arrested because the police suspect that you are guilty of drunk driving, no amount of arguing or explaining will help you. Instead, it provides police with more evidence to use against you, placing you in a more serious situation. Remember, you have the right to remain silent.
- Failing to get your license back. Not having your license can make your life more difficult without a reliable means of transportation to take you to work, school, or conduct your daily activities. Before you can reinstate your driver’s license, you must satisfy all of the requirements of your court revocation, such as completing an alcohol safety action program or installing an ignition interlock device (for multiple offenders). Driving on a suspended license can lead to additional penalties.
- Not hiring a DUI lawyer. Having an experienced attorney on your side can help you avoid all of the mistakes listed above and ensure that you get the outcome you desire. However, not all lawyers are created equal. You want to make sure that your attorney is trained to handle DUIs and check their case results.
I, Attorney George Holton Yates, am a board certified criminal defense lawyer with more than 30 years of experience. You can rely on me to fight tirelessly for you in order to secure the most favorable outcome possible. As a former prosecutor, I understand how the prosecution will approach your case, giving you an advantage in the courtroom. Do not risk fighting these serious charges without experienced and skilled legal assistance.
Contact my firm and schedule a free consultation today.