A DWI Lawyer Explains What Happens After Your Traffic Stop

Being a DWI lawyer, we know that some of the most intimidating moments can happen immediately after your arrest for a DWI violation. If you have been stopped for a DWI, it is critically important that you understand how the process works, do not allow yourself to be intimidated, and ensure that you have a lawyer on hand as soon as possible.

Many of our clients have never had a run-in with the law prior to their being stopped for a DWI. Facing possible charges and the fear of jail can cause people to make irrational statements, which they should not do in the absence of counsel from their DWI lawyer. The absolute best thing you can remember is if you are pulled over for a DWI, you need to request to contact an attorney quickly to ensure that your rights are not violated. 

Ironically, the very first step in being charged with a DWI may or may not have anything to do with the fact that you are driving under the influence. Police officers are placed strategically along the road to ensure that drivers are driving safely, and if a police officer feels that you have violated one or more of the road rules, they may pull you over for a routine traffic stop. You can also be stopped if a police officer feels that your driving is dangerous or erratic. Once you have been pulled over, it is important to remember that you do not need to panic. It is also important that you remain polite and calm at all times. The police officer is simply trying to do their job, which includes trying to gather DWI evidence against you during this traffic stop. If a police officer pulls you over and you suspect that they are trying to gather evidence for a DWI charge, it is important that you politely decline to answer any questions until you have had the opportunity to speak with your DWI lawyer. This is a fundamental right, and the police are required to allow you to speak with your attorney before asking you any further questions.

Should the officer determine that you are driving under the influence, they will make the decision to place you under arrest for a DWI. It is at this moment that you are required to be as cooperative and as friendly as you possibly can, despite the fact that you will probably be experiencing a great deal of fear and anxiety. As your DWI lawyer, we would recommend that you do not answer any questions but firmly and politely request the presence of your attorney. However, it is important that you do not resist arrest. If you resist arrest, the officer may bring those charges against you, too. In most cases, we recommend that you agree to undergo chemical DWI testing. If you refuse to cooperate, you could have additional charges placed against you, which is an unnecessary complication.

Following the arrest, you will be booked into the local jail. You will be fingerprinted, photographed, searched, and asked to answer some questions. As a person being charged with a DWI, you have some fundamental rights, and so it is important that you refuse to answer any questions but speak with your DWI lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that they are protected. Then, we can go to work building your defense.

NOTE: This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.