Facing a driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge is a frightening experience, and the consequences can be severe and long-lasting. Unfortunately, many individuals charged with DWI unknowingly make mistakes – some relatively minor, some major – that can complicate their cases and worsen outcomes.
Those defendants need the steadfast and tenacious support of a DWI attorney from Combs Waterkotte. Call us as soon as possible at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to schedule a free, confidential case review. During this time, you can discuss the specifics of your case and get expert legal advice and guidance on your particular circumstances. To help you navigate this challenging time, we’ve outlined the top mistakes DWI defendants make and how to best avoid them.
DWI Attorney: Top Mistakes DWI Defendants Make
Although DWI and driving under the influence (DUI) violations are some of the most common crimes in the country, navigating the complex legal system after an arrest never gets any easier. For many people, the situation is extremely stressful from the moment they are pulled over until the day the case is completed, and possibly even further on down the road. Here are the top mistakes our DWI defendants make, seen through the eyes of the Combs Waterkotte DWI legal team:
Failing to Hire an Experienced DWI Attorney
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is not hiring a skilled DWI attorney. The legal system is difficult to tread through alone, and DWI laws are complex and constantly changing. Without expert legal representation, you may miss opportunities to challenge evidence, cross examine witnesses, negotiate plea bargains, or even get your charges reduced or dismissed.
Solution: Hire an experienced DWI attorney, like those at Combs Waterkotte, who specializes in defending DWI cases just like yours. They understand the nuances and intricacies of the law and can provide you with the best possible defense. Call us right now at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Saying Too Much and/or Admitting Guilt
When pulled over for suspected DWI, many people inadvertently incriminate themselves by providing too much information or admitting guilt to law enforcement. Unfortunately, anything you say can be used against you in court.
Solution: Politely decline to answer questions about your activities or alcohol consumption, stating that you would rather not answer without legal advice. Always remember that you have the right to remain silent and in doing so you can avoid making any self-incriminating comments.
Failing to Understand Your Rights
Many individuals are unaware of their rights during a DWI stop, which can lead to unnecessary compliance with unlawful requests or tests.
Solution: Familiarize yourself with your rights, and consult with a DWI attorney about what you should and shouldn’t do during a DWI stop. The Combs Waterkotte DWI defense team always reminds clients – you are not required to perform field sobriety tests (FSTs) or answer incriminating questions. We also suggest refusing portable breath tests/breathalyzers as they are, like FSTs, only used to establish probable cause to arrest you.
Failing to Request an Administrative Hearing
You may face an administrative license suspension after a DWI arrest. Failing to request an administrative hearing within the specified timeframe – 15 days from the day the Notice of Suspension/Revocation of Driving Privilege is issued – can result in automatic suspension of your driving privileges.
Solution: Request an administrative hearing immediately, in order to contest the suspension of your license. Your skilled Combs Waterkotte DWI attorney can guide you through this process and help protect your driving privileges. Call us right away at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online.
Procrastinating and/or Ignoring Legal Deadlines
Missing court dates, deadlines for filing motions, or not adhering to procedural requirements can seriously damage your case. Missing short windows of opportunity, like the above administrative hearing deadline, can be a major prolonged issue in the eyes of the court, as a sense of urgency and initiative is important.
Solution: Keep a detailed calendar of all legal deadlines and court dates. Your DWI attorney will help you stay on top of these important dates and make sure you meet all procedural requirements.
Assuming a First-Time DWI Offense Will Mean Leniency
Many first-time DWI offenders assume they will receive a proverbial slap on the wrist. This is simply not the case. DWI charges can lead to significant penalties, including fines, license suspensions, and even possible jail time.
Solution: Take your DWI charge seriously, regardless of whether it’s your first offense or you’re a multi-offender. Work closely with your DWI attorney to build a strong defense and explore all possible options for reducing or dismissing the charges, or even pursuing sentencing diversions.
Not Considering the Long-Term Consequences of a DWI
A DWI conviction can have long-term consequences on your personal and professional life, including damage to your reputation, increased insurance rates, job loss, familial troubles, and difficulty finding future employment.
Solution: Work with your Combs Waterkotte DWI attorney to fully understand the potential long-term impacts of a DWI conviction and what we can do about it. Explore all possible defense strategies to mitigate these consequences.
DWI Attorney: Contact Combs Waterkotte Today to Learn About the Top Mistakes DWI Defendants Make
Facing a DWI charge is a serious matter that requires careful navigation and expert legal support. By avoiding these common mistakes and working closely with an experienced Combs Waterkotte DWI attorney, you can improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
If you’re facing a DWI charge, don’t hesitate to call us for a free consultation at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online to take the first step toward protecting your rights, your reputation, and your future.
