- July 12, 2023
Getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) can be a very stressful and life-changing experience. With strict DUI laws and harsh penalties, it’s important to take your case seriously from start to finish. Unfortunately, many people make common mistakes that can hurt their DUI case.
We will go over some of these mistakes so you can avoid them if you ever find yourself facing a DUI charge. It’s always best to consult with an experienced DUI lawyer in Orangeburg, SC who can help guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
Refusing a Breathalyzer Test
One of the most common mistakes people make when pulled over for DUI is refusing to take a breathalyzer test. While it’s understandable to be nervous or even scared during a traffic stop, refusing to take this test can have serious consequences.
In South Carolina, like many other US states, there are implied consent laws which mean that by driving on public roads you are giving your implied consent to submit to chemical testing if an officer suspects you of being under the influence. Refusing a breathalyzer test can lead to an automatic suspension of your driver’s license and may also be used against you in court as evidence of guilt.
It’s important to remember that these tests are not always accurate and there may be defenses available if you do decide to take one. However, it’s ultimately up to each individual whether they want to risk taking the test or not.
If you’re unsure about what steps to take during a traffic stop or after being charged with DUI in Orangeburg, it’s crucial that you speak with an experienced DUI lawyer who can advise you on your options and help protect your rights throughout the legal process.
Resisting Arrest
Resisting arrest is another common mistake that can complicate your DUI case in Orangeburg. When an officer pulls you over for suspicion of driving under the influence, it’s important to remain calm and comply with their instructions. Resisting arrest will only make matters worse and may lead to additional charges.
If an officer tells you that you are under arrest, do not resist or fight back. Doing so could result in physical harm to yourself as well as criminal charges for resisting arrest. Even if you believe that the police are being unfair or unjust, it’s best to follow their commands and consult with a lawyer about your legal options later on.
It’s also important to remember that resisting arrest can be used against you in court as evidence of guilt. If the prosecution can prove that you resisted or obstructed justice during your DUI stop, they may use this information to paint a negative picture of your character and behavior.
Giving Statements to the Police Without a Lawyer
Giving statements to the police without a lawyer can be one of the biggest mistakes you make in your DUI case. You might think that cooperating with law enforcement will help you, but it’s important to remember that anything you say can and will be used against you in court.
Without legal representation, you may not fully understand your rights or the implications of what you’re saying. Additionally, police officers are trained to ask specific questions designed to incriminate suspects.
It’s crucial to have an experienced Orangeburg DUI lawyer present during any interactions with law enforcement. A lawyer can advise you on how best to respond and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.
Remember, even seemingly harmless statements can be twisted and used against you in court. It’s better to err on the side of caution and let your attorney handle all communication with law enforcement.
In short, never give statements without a qualified DUI lawyer present. They know how to navigate these situations skillfully and protect your interests every step of the way.
Downplaying the Severity of Your DUI Case
One of the most common mistakes people make when facing a DUI case in Orangeburg is downplaying the severity of their situation. It’s understandable to feel embarrassed or overwhelmed, but it’s crucial to recognize that this is a serious legal matter with potentially life-altering consequences.
This kind of mistake can manifest in different ways. You might brush off the charges as minor and assume they’ll go away on their own. Or you might think that pleading guilty will be the easiest way out without fully understanding what that entails.
However, even a first-time DUI offense carries significant penalties like fines, license suspension, and possible jail time. Plus, it leaves a mark on your criminal record that could affect future employment opportunities and other aspects of your life.
Missing Court Dates
Missing a court date is one of the biggest mistakes that you can make when facing a DUI case in Orangeburg. It shows irresponsibility and disrespect for the legal system, which will not sit well with judges or prosecutors.
If you miss your court date, it could result in an automatic bench warrant being issued for your arrest. This means that law enforcement officers have the right to arrest you on sight if they find you anywhere.
Furthermore, missing a court date may cause additional charges against you such as failure to appear or contempt of court. These charges can lead to severe fines and even more jail time.
It’s vital to understand that attending all scheduled hearings and meetings with your attorney is essential in building a strong defense strategy for your case. Your lawyer needs time to prepare evidence presentations effectively and communicate adequately with prosecution teams.
Therefore, always inform your attorney immediately if extenuating circumstances arise that might prevent attendance at any scheduled meeting or hearing related to your DUI case in Orangeburg.
Talk to an Experienced Orangeburg DUI Lawyer!
If you want to avoid complicating your DUI case in Orangeburg, it’s crucial to make the right decisions from the very beginning. Most importantly, if you find yourself facing a DUI charge, don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced Orangeburg DUI lawyer as soon as possible.
An experienced attorney can help guide you through each step of your case and work towards achieving the best possible outcome for you. We will review all evidence against you and determine whether there were any violations of your constitutional rights during your arrest.
By working with an Orangeburg DUI attorney, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that someone is fighting for your rights and advocating on behalf of your best interests throughout every stage of the legal process.
Contact us as soon as possible at 803-353-1969 to schedule a free case review!
