If you have been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Essex County, you are facing a driver’s license suspension, fines, other financial penalties, and possibly even jail time. You need to do everything you can to protect yourself, and there are steps you need to try to take as soon as possible. Here, Essex County DUI lawyer Scott Gorman explains what to do after being arrested for DUI:
1. Make Sure You Know Your Court Date
When you were arrested, you should have received a summons, and your summons should specify the date on which you are required to make your first appearance in court. Make sure you know your court date and start making plans now to make sure you will be there on time.
2. Make Sure You Know the Charge(s) Against You
Did the arresting officer charge you with an “ordinary” DUI, or have you been charged with a more serious offense? Are you also facing prosecution for a DUI refusal? In order to present an effective defense, you first need to know what you need to defend against.
3. Write Down Everything You Can Remember about the Events Leading Up to Your Traffic Stop
The events leading up to your traffic stop could be crucial to determining what defenses you have available. Write down everything you can remember—from when you stopped drinking (if you were drinking) to when you saw the blue lights in your rearview mirror.
4. Write Down Everything You Can Remember about Your Traffic Stop and Arrest
The events that transpired during your traffic stop and arrest could provide defenses to your DUI charge (or charges) as well. Again, write down everything you can remember so that you can review the facts in detail with your attorney.
5. Learn about the Potential Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Essex County
New Jersey law imposes severe penalties for DUI convictions. In order to understand what is at stake in your case, you should carefully review the potential penalties for New Jersey DUI charges.
6. Learn about the Potential Defenses to DUI Charges Under New Jersey Law
In addition to learning about the penalties you could be facing, it will be important for you to learn about the potential defenses to DUI charges as well. In a previous article, we provided an overview of seven key defenses to DUI charges under New Jersey law.
7. Speak with a DUI Defense Lawyer Promptly
Finally, due to the complexity of New Jersey DUI cases and the consequences you will face if you are convicted, it is extremely important that you speak with a DUI defense lawyer right away. You do not want to try to handle your case on your own. Our firm provides free initial consultations, and we can arrange for you to discuss your case with an attorney in confidence as soon as possible.
Schedule a Free Initial Consultation with Essex County DUI Lawyer Scott Gorman
Are you facing a DUI charge in Essex County, NJ? To schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with defense attorney Scott Gorman, call 201-489-9199 or tell us how we can reach you online now. You can reach us 24/7.
Published in Categories: DUI / DWI
