If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), time is not on your side. The next 24 hours are critical to protecting your license, your record, and your freedom. Many people make costly mistakes immediately after a DUI arrest—mistakes that can lead to harsher penalties, lost driving privileges, and even jail time.
Here’s what you need to do right now to give yourself the best chance of a favorable outcome.
Step 1: Do NOT Talk to the Police Without a Lawyer
After a DUI arrest, officers might try to get you to admit fault or provide more information. They may ask things like:
"How much did you have to drink?"
"Do you feel drunk?"
"Where were you coming from?"
Even if they act friendly, their job is to gather evidence to convict you. You have the right to remain silent, and you should use it. Do not try to explain yourself, apologize, or justify anything—just politely say:
👉 "I am invoking my right to remain silent. I want a lawyer."
Step 2: Request an Administrative Hearing Immediately
In many states, a DUI arrest triggers an automatic suspension of your driver’s license—often within just a few days. However, you can fight this by requesting a hearing.
🚨 WARNING: You typically have only 10 days or less to request this hearing, or you lose your license automatically.
An experienced DUI attorney can file this request for you and fight to keep your driving privileges intact.
Step 3: Document Everything You Remember About Your Arrest
Memories fade quickly. As soon as possible, write down every detail of what happened before, during, and after your arrest. This includes:
✅ Where you were before you got pulled over
✅ What the officer said to you
✅ Whether you took a breathalyzer or field sobriety tests
✅ How much alcohol (or medication) you consumed, if any
✅ Any witnesses who saw you before or during the stop
Even small details can make a huge difference in your case.
Step 4: Avoid Posting on Social Media
You might feel tempted to vent about your arrest on social media—but DON’T DO IT. Anything you post can be used against you in court.
Prosecutors love when defendants post things like:
❌ “I wasn’t even that drunk.”
❌ “The cop was totally unfair.”
❌ “Guess I’ll be Ubering for a while lol.”
Even private messages can be subpoenaed. Stay off social media until your case is resolved.
Step 5: Contact a Lawyer ASAP
A DUI charge is not a simple traffic ticket—it’s a criminal offense that can lead to:
🚔 License suspension
🏛️ Fines & court costs
⛓️ Jail time
📉 Higher insurance rates
💼 Job loss (if you drive for work)
The best way to fight these consequences? Hire a lawyer who knows how to beat DUI charges.
A skilled attorney can:✔ Challenge the validity of your traffic stop
✔ Question the accuracy of breathalyzer & field sobriety tests
✔ Fight to keep your driver’s license
✔ Negotiate for a reduced charge or dismissal
🚨 The sooner you act, the better your chances of a good outcome. Call Brinkley Law today for a consultation and let us start building your defense immediately.
📞 317-766-1379
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