Many people who are arrested on their first DWI offense don’t take it seriously. This is especially true if no one was hurt and there was no property damage. This is a huge mistake. A DWI charge is a felony and can result in the long-term loss of a driver’s license, large fines, court costs, increased insurance premiums and possibly jail time. When the police stop a person who has never been arrested before, the person’s first inclination will be to admit that they just left a bar after having a few drinks. Instead, they should politely tell the arresting officer, that they want to call their criminal lawyer in Rockwall TX.
The defendant may still have to submit to a breathalyzer or field sobriety test without speaking to his lawyer. This is one of the few times that a person can be compelled by the police to provide evidence, without first speaking to their attorney. During and after complying with those instructions, the defendant should remain silent. It’s important to hire a criminal lawyer in Rockwall TX as soon as possible. In the state of Texas, a person who fails a breathalyzer test automatically loses their license. They have to request an administrative hearing within 15 days to appeal that action. If a person fails to follow the proper procedure to request a hearing within that time period, they lose the right to challenge their driver’s license suspension. Visit website to learn more.
Even if the appeal is unsuccessful, the criminal lawyer in Rockwall TX can gather important information at the hearing. He will have an opportunity to question the arresting officer. The lawyer will learn what criteria the officer used to determine probable cause to stop the car and administer a breathalyzer test. He will also learn what other evidence the district attorney is considering. This will help the lawyer mount a credible defense. He may also be able to have the District Attorney reduce the charges.
Law Offices of Tim Hartley represent defendants charged with DUI offenses. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a first offense or the last of many. Every defendant is entitled to have an attorney.
