A Georgia charge of driving under the influence has the potential to upend many areas of your life. You may have to serve time behind bars, and you may also find it difficult to hold down a job or save money if you wind up losing your driver’s license.
However, whether that charge ultimately sticks depends to some degree on the actions you do and do not take after receiving the charge. After authorities charge you with drunk driving, think twice before making the following common errors.
1. Admitting fault
When a law enforcement officer reads you your Miranda Rights, he or she notes that the things you say may come back to haunt you in a court of law. Therefore, you may want to say as little as possible during your encounter. In particular, you may want to avoid admitting fault.
2. Not requesting a hearing
Another common error involves not asking for a hearing to prevent the automatic suspension of your driver’s license. Often, those facing DUI charges miss this step because they are unaware they have to request the hearing to prevent the loss of licensure.
3. Not understanding the severity of possible penalties
Another grave mistake involves not recognizing the severity of the repercussions that may be coming your way and the impacts they may have on your life.
4. Not talking to an attorney
A final common error many make when facing DUI charges is thinking they do not need an attorney. An attorney understands the nuances of the law and may be able to pinpoint defenses based on the chain of command, breath test calibration or other circumstances. He or she may also be able to help you gather the evidence you may otherwise be unable to obtain.
Avoiding these common errors may help you achieve a more favorable outcome in your DUI case.