What to Do If You’re Charged with Drunk Driving: A Step-by-Step Guide

Being charged with drunk driving can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. It’s essential to stay calm and take the right steps to protect your rights and future. As a drunk driving attorney, I’ve helped numerous clients navigate this challenging situation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand what to do if you’re charged with drunk driving:

Step 1: Remain Calm and Seek Legal Counsel
Take a deep breath and acknowledge that this is a serious situation. It’s crucial to find a qualified drunk driving attorney who has experience handling cases like yours. They will provide guidance and representation throughout the process.

Step 2: Understand the Charges
Familiarize yourself with the specific charges against you. Drunk driving charges can vary by state, but common acronyms for the charge of drunk driving include:
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
Operating Under the Influence (OUI)

Step 3: Gather Information
Collect any relevant documentation, including:
Police reports
Breathalyzer or blood test results
Witness statements
Any video or audio evidence

Step 4: Cooperate with Your Attorney
Share all details with your attorney, including:
The events leading up to your arrest
Any interactions with law enforcement
Any prior convictions or legal issues

Step 5: Review Potential Defenses
Work with your attorney to explore possible defenses, such as:
Challenging breathalyzer or blood test results
Questioning the legality of the traffic stop
Arguing that symptoms were caused by a medical condition

Step 6: Consider Plea Options
Your attorney will help you evaluate potential plea options, including:
Pleading guilty
Pleading no contest
Negotiating a reduced charge

Step 7: Prepare for Court
Your attorney will guide you through the court process, ensuring you’re prepared for:
Arraignment
Pre-trial motions
Trial (if necessary)

Step 8: Take Responsibility and Learn
If convicted, take responsibility for your actions and consider the consequences. Use this experience as an opportunity to learn and grow, seeking help if needed to address any underlying issues related to alcohol use.

Remember, facing a drunk driving charge can be daunting, but with the right legal guidance and support, you can navigate this difficult situation and move forward.
Consult with a Drunk Driving Attorney Today.

I have been providing Operating Under the Influence (OUI and OUI Drugs) defense services in Massachusetts for over Thirty (30) years. I have been named a “Superior DUI Attorney” by the National Advocacy for DUI Defense, one of the “Ten best attorneys for Massachusetts”, by the American institute of DUI/DWI attorneys, a “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” by The National Trial Lawyers, I have earned the “Clients’ Choice Award” by AVVO, the Client Champion Platinum Award by Martindale-Hubbell and I have won over Ninety Percent (90%) of my trials.*

This blog is not intended to be legal advice, if you have been charged with Operating Under the Influence (OUI, DUI, DWI all common acronyms varying by state for “Drunk Driving”) or any other crime in Massachusetts you should call an experienced and successful Drunk Driving lawyer immediately. Call Mike Now at: (508) 393-4162.