DWI Attorney Edina MN | What To Do When You’re Caught Driving While Intoxicated (Part 1)
If you’re caught driving while intoxicated, you’re likely to be in a difficult situation that requires expert legal assistance. Here at Campoli Defense, we specialize in DWI defense, and we can help you understand your rights and options so that you can make the most informed decisions possible as your case moves forward. DWI Attorney Edina MN
Call a lawyer. DWI Attorney Edina MN
When you’re arrested and charged with DWI, it’s important to get legal help immediately. You should call a lawyer as soon as possible after being arrested for DWI. The sooner you talk to an attorney about your case, the better chance your lawyer will have of protecting your rights and getting the best outcome possible. The first step in finding a good attorney is to contact the police department that made the arrest. They can tell you which lawyers they usually recommend to their clients who are caught driving while intoxicated, or they may give you a list of names and phone numbers of attorneys who specialize in defending people charged with DWIs.
Once you’ve found an attorney who seems like he or she could be helpful in defending your case, meet with them right away so they can begin working on preparing for trial at least several days before any court date is set (you will not be able to plead guilty if there isn’t an arraignment within 30 days). Your attorney should also discuss all possible consequences of pleading guilty or being found guilty before making any decisions about how best to proceed with negotiations between prosecutors and defense teams—this includes considering whether there might be any mitigating factors that would lessen punishment if convicted; such factors could include history of alcohol abuse treatment programs, employment status (elderly drivers, etc.)
If you do not have a lawyer, call the police department that arrested you.
If you do not have a lawyer, call the police department that arrested you and ask for a list of lawyers who specialize in DWI defense. You may be able to find one who will see you immediately or come to meet with you later in the day. If not, your best bet is probably going to be contacting an attorney by phone, who can then help discuss your options and refer you to someone who can meet with you sooner if needed.
It’s important that when contacting a lawyer on this topic—whether it’s by phone or in person—that they are aware of all the details surrounding your case. The more information they have about how things occurred during your arrest and subsequent investigation, the better equipped they’ll be to advise what steps should be taken next.
Show up for your court date. DWI Attorney Edina MN
If you fail to appear at your court date, the state can issue a bench warrant for your arrest. The judge will not be happy with you, and there is no guarantee that the case against you will be dropped if you are arrested after missing so many hearings. Stay on top of things by showing up for all of your hearings and appointments.
In addition to showing up in person, it’s also important to show up sober—don’t be caught driving while intoxicated again!
When it’s your turn to speak in court, don’t give any statements about your case, even if you are tempted to say something in your defense.
When it’s your turn to speak in court, don’t give any statements about your case, even if you are tempted to say something in your defense. You should not give any statements to anyone about the incident or the charges against you. Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor and police on your behalf. Even if they pressure you into making a statement—even if they threaten jail time—don’t do it!
Don’t plead guilty. DWI Attorney Edina MN
If you are caught driving while intoxicated, the first thing to do is not plead guilty. You may be tempted to plead guilty to a lesser charge and get a lighter sentence. However, this should only be done if you are sure that you are guilty and willing to accept the consequences for your actions. Generally speaking, pleading guilty will result in more severe penalties than simply paying fines or going through driver’s education classes. It also can affect your ability to obtain employment or rent property.
Contact Lauren Campoli, the top criminal trial lawyer in Edina MN, now to learn more about our legal defense services, or if you’ve been charged with a crime.