Car Accidents and Lawyers to Reduce Stress

Posted on: 29 March 2016

A DUI offense is no laughing matter, which means you will need to do everything in your power to lower the charges. This can be difficult if you were intoxicated and if the prosecuting attorneys have proof of it, such as blood test or breathalyzer results. Your first task is to get an attorney of your own, and then you need to read over these tips so you can improve your chances of lenient sentencing on your court date.

Tip #1: Create A Fact Sheet

Sit down with pen and paper as soon as you are able and write down everything you can remember from the day of the DUI. Begin with the history – where did you go and who with while you were drinking? How long were you there and how many (and what kind) of drinks did you have? After the basic history of the lead up events, write down everything you remember about the DUI stop and the events following your arrest. Include the reason you were told for the stop, the names of any witnesses, and details on the questions you were asked. Your attorney will need this information to begin building your case, so be honest.

Tip #2: Go Into Counseling

Some people are wary of counseling because they are afraid it will look like an admission of guilt. In truth, it actually is the opposite because it shows that you are taking the charges seriously and willing to be proactive about the situation. A DUI charge can paint a person as irresponsible, and a judge or jury may not trust an irresponsible person to mend their ways without severe punishment. Only a responsible individual would go into counseling or treatment unasked, so you will instantly appear more likely to be responsible enough to remedy your ways with lesser charges.

Tip #3: Keep It Clean

Not only do you need to avoid alcohol and drugs from the time of your arrest to after final sentencing, you need to strive to keep every aspect of your life as clean looking as possible. This is a good time to take a break from social media, since friendly banter with friends and family online can be used against you. Avoid spending time in bars, too, even if you don't plan to drink. Instead, stick to family-friendly entertainment so you can't be accused of any further misdeeds.

Your attorney can help you record the facts of the event, find counseling, and even coach you through the weeks or months leading up to your court appearances. Contact a local DUI attorney right away if you find yourself accused of a DUI.