Resources

What to Do After You Get a DUI

July 27, 2021

Man drinking at risk of getting a DUI

Here’s What to Do After a DUI

The aftermath of being charged with a DUI can be stressful and confusing. You may be wondering what to do after you get arrested on a DUI charge – especially if you’re not guilty. There are certain steps you should take to shield yourself from repercussions. What you do after a DUI-related arrest can mean a world of difference in your life.

Dowden & Smith has a team of experienced attorneys dedicated to helping you reach a favorable outcome for your DUI charge. Let us listen to your concerns and plan out your options so you can make informed legal decisions and prepare for the future.

Seek Legal Counsel After a DUI

The first thing you must do after you get a DUI is to find a great DUI attorney. An experienced DUI attorney can help you navigate the extensive and confusing state laws in effect regarding driving under the influence. An attorney can also help you through the process and steps of being prosecuted for a DUI. You’ll never be wondering what to do after you get arrested for a DUI charge with an attorney guiding you through each step.

It is crucial to hire a DUI attorney after a DUI charge because they will first and foremost help discover if the DUI arrest was even valid. DUI lawyers help build your case for dismissal of the charge based on the validity of the arrest itself. There are certain procedures officers must follow during the initial stop in order to render the arrest valid. An attorney can help discover whether those procedures were followed. If they weren’t, your attorney could help get the charge dismissed.

After a DUI arrest, contact an experienced attorney immediately to see if your arrest was lawful.

If you need an attorney after a DUI, contact the experienced attorneys at Dowden & Smith. We’ll do everything in our power to help you reach a favorable outcome.

After a DUI, You Might Qualify for a Pretrial Diversion Program or ProbationPerson seeking legal counsel about what to do after a DUI

A pretrial diversion program is a program administered by the District Attorney’s Office or City Prosecutor’s Office for first-time offenders. It involves classes, community service, and paying fines in order to get the charge dismissed. If you’re a first-time offender, call an attorney about the pretrial program after a DUI-related arrest.

Even if you do not qualify for pretrial diversion, you qualify for probation with no sentence being imposed, which would allow you to have the conviction set aside after successfully completing the terms and conditions of your probation.

What you may qualify for after a DUI will depend on your case and situation. Contact a DUI attorney today to discuss your options.

Court-Ordered Sentencing

If you are found guilty, you may receive a sentence after a DUI. The severity of the sentencing often depends on the severity of the DUI.

Punishments may include:

  • Fines
  • Classes
  • Probation
  • Restriction or Loss of License
  • Jail
  • Alcohol Program
  • Community Service

Drivers License Suspension After a DUIGlass of alcohol and a hand next to car keys after getting a DUI

In Louisiana, your driver’s license will be suspended upon conviction for a DUI. However, you might be able to secure a restricted “hardship” driver’s license if the suspension of your driver’s license would deprive you or your family of the necessities of life or will prevent you from earning a livelihood.

In order to be issued a restricted driver’s license to be allowed to drive, you will have to have your motor vehicle equipped with a functioning ignition interlock device and provide proof to the Department of Public Safety and Corrections. The period of suspension of your driver’s license will vary depending on certain factors.

Because of the impact of a conviction of DUI upon your driving privileges, it is important to retain the services of a qualified DUI attorney as soon as possible after your arrest.

Expungement Procedure After a DUI

After a conviction for a DUI, you might be able to obtain an expungement. An attorney may be able to help you through the expungement procedure to remove the conviction from your public record. Expungement of a DUI is complicated and may not be an option for every individual. Furthermore, certain agencies, such as law enforcement, may still be able to view your conviction.

Expungement can still offer a great opportunity for you. If you want to know if you qualify for DUI record expungement, contact the DUI attorneys at Dowden & Smith.

Still Wondering What to Do After a DUI? – Contact Dowden & Smith Today

If you have questions about what to do after a DUI or you need an attorney for the process after being charged with a DUI, contact Dowden & Smith today at 337-238-2800. We’ll help you through the process and ensure you know what to do after a DUI to put you in the best spot for your future.

Disclaimer

The contents of this website do not constitute legal advice. The information contained on this site is for general information only and should not be applied to any specific situation. Any use of the site does not create or constitute a client-lawyer relationship between Dowden & Smith and the user of the site. If you require legal advice, consult with an experienced attorney.

Please Leave Us a Message

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.