A DWI arrest in Texas can be a scary, frustrating, and confusing situation, especially if it is your first time dealing with the criminal justice system. Unfortunately, inexperience and a lack of knowledge of the legal process can make you vulnerable to certain mistakes that can result in harsh consequences.
Here are the most common mistakes you can make after a Texas DWI arrest:
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Ignore your charges – Many people believe you can ignore a DWI charge like a traffic offense. But if you don’t take the matter seriously, you can serve the maximum penalties – such as jail time and driver’s license suspension – if you are convicted. Furthermore, a conviction can haunt you for the rest of your life.
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Speaking with the police – While law enforcement officials may give you the chance to “tell your side of the story,” you should exercise your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent until you speak with your lawyer. Remember, anything you say can and will be used against you, so do not provide the police with more potentially incriminating information.
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Plead guilty – Just because you have been arrested does not mean you are automatically guilty of the offense. If you plead guilty at your first court appearance (arraignment), not only will you lose the chance to defend yourself to either get your case dismissed or reduce the charges/penalties against you, but the judge will also have the discretion to sentence you to the maximum penalties.
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Not regaining your driving privileges back – If you fail to request an administrative license suspension hearing or obtain a conditional/occupational license that allows you to drive to and from certain locations (e.g., work, your child’s school or daycare, medical appointments, etc.), then your driver’ license will remain suspended until your hearing. Not having the ability to drive can make your life extremely difficult.
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Not hiring a lawyer – Since you are not familiar with the criminal justice system, you need someone on your side who does. An experienced criminal justice lawyer can investigate your arrest, collect and examine the evidence against and supporting you, negotiate with the prosecutor, and help you obtain the most favorable result in your case.
If you have been arrested for a DWI in Plano or Fort Worth, contact Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC today at 888-4-ZEN-LAW for a free case evaluation. Let our legal team with over 60 years of combined experience help you recover your entitled compensation.