Drivers can get arrested for a driving under the influence (DUI) charge at any point. In fact, there tends to be an uptick in arrests after the sun sets, as many people wait to start drinking until later in the day. They then need to get home for the evening and may encounter police officers along the way. Weekends may also see an increase in DUI arrests.
Technically, a drunk driving arrest can occur at any time so long as the police officer has probable cause to suspect that someone is under the influence. Therefore, drivers may need access to legal support late at night, in the early hours of the morning or during the weekend.
Instead of waiting until the next business day to contact a lawyer, it is almost always preferable to take action as soon as possible. Some criminal defense attorneys make themselves available to new clients on a 24/7 basis because the early stages after arrest can have a critical impact on a client’s case.
What people say during and after arrest can hurt them
The idea that people need to wait to sober up and reach out to a lawyer the next day or on Monday is a dangerous one. They may end up saying things while in state custody that put them at greater risk if they want to defend against their charges later.
All too often, a little bit of liquid courage can convince people that they can talk their way out of charges. They may also share too much information with others in state custody, leaving themselves vulnerable to one of those people acting as a jailhouse informant. People frequently make statements that can constitute confessions and put themselves at risk of incarceration, large fines and a driver’s license suspension.
Individuals who get pulled over by the police can often ask to have an attorney present during a roadside encounter. They can also invoke their right to representation and their right to remain silent as soon as possible after an arrest to minimize their chances of a criminal conviction.
An attorney can educate a new DUI client about their rights and may be able to help secure their release sooner rather than later. They may be able to identify when police officers have overstepped their authority and engaged in inappropriate conduct, including conducting illegal traffic stops.
The sooner people reach out for legal support after a DUI arrest, the better their chances of successfully defending against pending DUI charges. Choosing to seek professional support can make all the difference for those recently arrested during a DUI traffic stop. Those arrested for a DUI can reach out to the team at the Law Office of Marvin Knorr & Associates at any time by clicking here or calling 859-267-5903.