| If you have been charged with a DUI (driving under the | | | | looking eyes. If they suspect you are under the |
| influence) offence then you are perhaps wondering | | | | influence then they will probably test you for being |
| what will happen next. Getting the expert advice of a | | | | DUI. These tests are known as field sobriety tests |
| qualified DC DUI lawyer will help you to understand the | | | | and you do have the right to refuse them. |
| charge(s) against you, the judicial process and what | | | | You will be charged with DUI once there is sufficient |
| the likely penalty will be. | | | | evidence against you. This evidence may include the |
| In most cases your first meeting with a DC DUI lawyer | | | | observations of the police officer, blood and breath |
| will be free of charge and they will explain to you the | | | | tests and other tests carried out. As soon as you |
| state law as it applies to your case, the court process | | | | have been charged with an offence relating to DUI |
| and the likely outcome of the court hearing. Should | | | | then it is a good idea to hire a DC DUI lawyer as soon |
| you then decide to hire them, they will work on | | | | as possible. |
| preparing the best possible defense for your case with | | | | An experienced DUI lawyer will be able to manage |
| a view to obtaining the most lenient penalty applicable | | | | your case and the processes involved from start to |
| to the charges against you. | | | | finish, which is why it is important you hire one as soon |
| It can also be beneficial for you to familiarize yourself | | | | as you can. From the moment you hire them they |
| with applicable state law on charges of DUI as they | | | | will precede with all necessary paperwork, preparing |
| relate to your case. Your DUI lawyer may also | | | | your defense and talking to all parties involved. Being |
| discuss the possibility of entering a plea bargain | | | | convicted of a DUI offence can have lasting effects |
| whereby you plead guilty to all charges in return for a | | | | which can be devastating depending on your |
| lighter penalty. | | | | situation. It is important therefore that you know what |
| If you are stopped by a police officer whilst in your | | | | legal protection is available to you and your |
| vehicle, for any violation of traffic law, they are likely to | | | | constitutional rights. Consulting with a DC DUI lawyer |
| look for any signs that you are under the influence of | | | | is the best course of action should you be charged |
| alcohol, including the odor of alcohol on your breath, | | | | with DUI. |
| fumbling or slurring of words and sore or watery | | | | |