How to Improve Your Situation Before Getting in Front of the Judge for a DUI Trial
Posted on: 26 August 2016
If you have been charged with DUI, everything you do between your arrest and your trial can weaken or strengthen your case. Here are some of the things that can strengthen your case.
Don't Post Incriminating Photos
The allure of social media is so strong that some people find themselves posting incriminating pictures and videos of their drunken driving. However, that picture of yourself holding a drink in one hand while driving out of a parking lot will not just attract likes from your friends; it will also attract a reaction from the prosecutor handling your case. How can you claim innocence if there are pictures of you drinking and driving soon afterward? Don't incriminate yourself by posting such things online or sharing them with your friends in any way.
Keep Off the Bottle for the Time Being
Another thing that may help your case is to stop drinking for the time being. This will help you avoid alcohol-related charges, which can complicate your original DUI charge. For example, if you keep on drinking pending your hearing, there is a risk that you may be arrested and charged with public intoxication. The prosecutor of your DUI can use your public intoxication charge to show that you are an irresponsible person who can't keep off alcohol no matter the consequences.
Voluntarily Agree to Counseling
Rehabilitation or counseling is one of the paths that DUI courts sometimes use to discourage repeat DUI offenses. However, you don't have to wait until after your trial to start a counseling program. Voluntarily starting a counseling program, such as by attending an Alcoholics Anonymous program, can help you deal with your addiction and show the court that you are remorseful and ready to address your addiction.
Start Preparing for the Hearing
Lastly, you need to prepare for your hearing; do this whether or not you think you have a strong case. Here are some of the things you need to do in your preparation.
1. Write a detailed account of the events surrounding your arrest. This will help you remember key details later on, since human memory is fickle.
2. Gather medical evidence that may prove an alternative explanation (as opposed to intoxication) for your failure in field sobriety tests.
3. Gather documentation that shows you as a responsible member of the community; examples include proof of employment and proof of college enrollment.
In addition to the above measures, consult a DUI attorney as soon as possible. All the above measures will be easier and more effective if you have a DUI attorney advising you. For example, an attorney such as Scott A Bitar Atty can advise you on the best addiction-counseling program in your area.
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