Online Driving School Blog

What to Do After a DUI

what to do after a DUI

After a DUI arrest, you may feel completely alone and frightened. It's imperative to understand that while this is a very serious charge, your life isn't over.

It's also important to know you're not alone. Around 1,500,000 people deal with drunk driving arrests each year. The best thing you can do is take the proper steps to get through this difficult time. It may not feel like it, but you have options.

The period directly after your arrest is the most critical, so it's important to educate yourself on what your responsibilities are. To help you out, let's go over what to do after a DUI charge.

Come to Terms with the Charge

Getting a DUI may leave you feeling ashamed, embarrassed, and angry at yourself. These are natural responses to an arrest, but it's important that you come to terms with your actions so you can regain a sense of hope.

You'll need a clear head in order to navigate the legal system. It may help to speak to your close friends and family about your situation. Some of them may know what to do after a DUI arrest. They might also be able to help you as a witness in your defense.

Getting it out in the open is therapeutic and you'll probably get the emotional support you need. Just remember, you don't have to broadcast your arrest to everyone. Be careful of any social media posts that may sound incriminating and damage your defense and reputation.

Contact the DMV

You'll get a temporary license when you're released from jail. On the back, there's a number for the DMV you'll need to call.

It's essential you contact the DMV no more than 10 days after your arrest to set up a hearing. If you don't do this within this timeframe, you risk automatic suspension of your license.

There are a few things you need to establish when you call.

First, you'll need to request an Administrative Per Se (APS) hearing. This is not your court hearing, but a hearing in which the DMV determines if you can continue to drive while you're waiting for your court date.

You'll also need to request a copy of the arrest report. Finally, ask for a stay on action against your license.

Hire an Attorney

If you don't already have an attorney, it's time to look for one. Don't try to navigate the legal system yourself.

You'll need to work with an attorney who practices in the city you were arrested. Also, make sure the attorney you hire specializes in DUI charges. Just because they're a criminal defense attorney doesn't mean they have experience with your situation.

Once you hire an attorney, they'll look at the details of your case and determine the best course of action that will garner the lowest penalty.

Listen to your attorney and do exactly what they ask of you. You'll likely need to attend drug or alcohol classes prior to or after your hearing. There are online options to look into that are easy to enroll in and work with your schedule.

Know What to Do

The first steps after an arrest are the most important. Make sure you follow the tips above and face your DUI charge head-on.

Once you hire an attorney, let them guide you through the process and remember to stay positive.

We offer a number of online drug, alcohol and defensive driving classes and are here to help. Learn more today by visiting our website.

North Metro Online Education is a premier defensive driving, DUI school, and alcohol and drug evaluation counseling center. We provide a wide variety of online classes to satisfy your court or DMV requirements. Offering classes in ALL 50 states, we're a leader in U.S. distance learning programs.

 

 

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