7 Mistakes You Can’t Afford to Make After a DUI Charge
By Dan Noll on October 20th, 2016 in Articles, General
People who have been charged with DUI in Illinois often make mistakes that cost them later on in court. If you’ve been charged with DUI in the state, it’s crucial that you don’t make any of the seven mistakes covered below.
Not taking it seriously
Unlike a traffic ticket, a DUI isn’t just a fine you pay that goes away immediately afterward. If you’re convicted, you can end up with steep fines and even jail time. A DUI conviction on your record can also haunt you for years to come, interfering with opportunities in education, employment and other areas of your life. You must take the situation as seriously as possible and act accordingly.
Driving after your license is revoked
Once your license had been revoked because of a DUI charge, you can’t drive, even if you feel the DUI isn’t valid. Driving without a valid license can land you in even more hot water than you’re already in. Driving on a suspended license in Illinois can land you a Class A misdemeanor charge, which carries a fine of up to $2,500 and a prison sentence of up to one year. Take taxis, walk and arrange for transportation with family and friends while your license is revoked.
Missing court appearances
You must attend all court appearances related to your case. If you don’t go, a warrant can be issued for your arrest, and you may just find yourself on the higher side of the DUI penalty scale.
Taking a plea deal without speaking to an attorney
Speak to experienced DUI attorneys Springfield Illinois before you accept any plea deal for your DUI. You could be agreeing to a punishment that is harsher than necessary in your case, so it’s important that you have an attorney review your case and the plea deal before signing anything.
Not staying silent
As you’ve probably heard before, you do have the right to remain silent. Anything you tell law enforcement or the prosecutor in your case can be used against you in court later, so it’s best to stay silent and ask for an attorney. Your DUI attorneys Springfield Illinois will advise you on how to speak to the prosecutor and others on your case so you don’t say something that could jeopardize your future.
Assuming the tests are all accurate
Testing used to prove you’re under the influence, including urine, blood and field sobriety tests, has to be conducted in a specific way and can be erroroneous. Don’t assume that no mistakes were made or that all of the proper procedures were followed in your case.
Failing to get legal representation
With a DUI charge in Illinois being such a serious matter, having experienced legal representation is usually a wise move. Your future is on the line, so make sure you have someone experienced on your side before you go to court.