People often find themselves going out and socializing more during the summer. In many cases, this involves drinking alcohol. Whether you’ll be frequenting restaurants, bars, or private parties this summer, here’s what you should do in case your fun ends with a DWI arrest.
Step One: Contact An Attorney
The first step you should take is to hire an experienced DWI defense attorney. They will be able to guide you through each step of your case and protect you along the way.
At Smith & Vinson Law Firm, we have handled hundreds of DWI cases and obtained not guilty verdicts, dismissals, and charge reductions for our clients.
Step Two: Attend Hearings
Generally, the first court hearing after a DWI arrest is the arraignment. This is when you will be able to hear what charges are being filed against you and make your official plea. If you plead guilty, you waive your right to a trial and will go straight to sentencing. If you plead not guilty, the case will continue.
Additionally, you may request an ALR hearing after your DWI. At this hearing, you can fight to keep your driver’s license and avoid the period of suspension. However, this hearing does not occur automatically. You must request this hearing specifically, and you only have 15 days after your arrest date to do so.
Step Three: Stay Out of Trouble
It is important that you do not get into any additional legal trouble while you have a pending case. For example, don’t take the risk of driving on a suspended license. Any new criminal charges during your pending case can hurt the potential outcome of your initial DWI case.
DWI Defense Attorneys in Austin, Texas
If you are charged with DWI this summer in Austin, contact our DWI team at Smith & Vinson Law Firm. We want to help you through your case and fight aggressively so your DWI does not become part of your criminal record. We understand that facing charges is stressful, and we want to help make the process as easy as possible. Get in touch with our team today, call (512) 359-3743 or click here to set up a consultation online.