What to do When Charged with a DUI in Pennsylvania
Driving under the influence is a serious offense in the state of Pennsylvania. Any time you get behind the wheel of a car after having a few too many drinks, you’re putting your life and others’ lives in danger. Likewise, the penalties for a DUI can alter your life for many years to come and prevent you from living life to the fullest.
If you’ve been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or driving after imbibing (DAI), it’s important that you have an understanding of the steps to take in order to protect your interests. I am Pennsylvania DUI charge attorney Basil D. Beck III. My law office represents clients throughout the five-county area in all aspects of DUI cases. As an experienced attorney, I am committed to seeing your rights are protected above all else. I will level the playing field between you and the legal system.
What Are Three Things I Should Do After Being Charged With a DUI or DAI?
If you’ve been arrested for drunk driving in Pennsylvania, the following information can provide valuable insights into what you should and should not do following a drunk driving arrest.
- Know your rights: For many people, their first DUI stop is also their first-ever encounter with the law. They think that by cooperating with the police they can improve their chances of a positive result. Therefore, they do everything the police request, including giving them information they don’t legally need to disclose. Unfortunately, they are only giving the police the necessary evidence to secure a conviction. When speaking to a police officer during a DUI stop, only give them the bare minimum information. Then, contact a lawyer as soon as you are able to.
- Exercise your rights: Following a DUI arrest, it’s important to take any steps that will help you avoid conviction. This includes placing blame on yourself or admitting guilt. One of the most common ways that people admit guilt following a DUI is through field sobriety tests. Most people don’t know that they have the right to refuse roadside field sobriety and breath tests without facing criminal penalties. Though refusal could lead to a license suspension, no additional criminal charges come into play. In addition, you don’t have to answer any questions from the police without a lawyer present. Don’t give away any evidence that will only be used to convict you.
- Hire a good lawyer: There’s a stigma associated with individuals who get pulled over for driving under the influence. Typically they’re looked down upon and automatically assumed to be guilty. The police usually will not take the time to explain your rights, so you will likely have little to go on in terms of legal advice. Whether you have refused to take a breathalyzer test and are now facing a license suspension or are facing more serious criminal charges, an attorney can help you navigate the process and create a viable defense strategy that stands up in court.
As a trusted criminal defense attorney in Pennsylvania, my only goal is to see that you receive fair treatment under the law. When you hire me as your attorney, you can rely on me to do everything in my power to protect your rights and your future.
Call Basil D. Beck III for a Free DUI Consultation in PA
You don’t have to live in the shadows of a DUI conviction any longer. With the right legal help, you can be on your way to a promising future and a life free from the consequences of your past mistakes. If you’re currently facing charges for driving under the influence, call the law offices of Basil D. Beck as soon as possible. I have more than 20 years of criminal defense experience and am committed to working for people just like you. Contact my office in Norristown to discuss your DUI/DAI case. I offer a free consultation to discuss your available legal options and build a plan of action designed to achieve the best possible result in your case. Call my office to schedule your consultation at 610-239-8870 or contact me via email.