Avoid the Most Common DUI Arrest Mistakes
Albers & Associates has been recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in Criminal Defense: DUI because our office helps clients avoid the most common DUI arrest mistakes.
A DUI arrest does not discriminate and affects all demographics. Our clients range from underage drinkers to the elderly. Despite the range in clientele, many people still make the most common DUI arrest mistakes.
Most Common DUI Arrest Mistakes
During your free consultation we will help identify your biggest fears and make sure you avoid the most common DUI arrest mistakes. Here are the most common DUI arrest mistakes:
Not requesting a MVA hearing
In certain DUI cases, requesting a MVA hearing is a critical step that must be done in order to save your privilege to drive in Maryland. In other instances, requesting a MVA hearing may be a waste of money and time. Consulting with an experienced DUI attorney can help you decide whether or not to request a MVA hearing.
Remember, if you don’t request a MVA hearing within 10 days of your arrest, then you most likely will not be able to have a hearing and your privilege to drive in Maryland may be suspended.
Failing to appear for a preliminary inquiry
Within five business days of your arrest, you must appear before the District Court Commissioner for a preliminary inquiry. At a preliminary inquiry, you will be advised of your right to an attorney, the maximum penalties for the charges, and given a trial date.
However, if you hire an attorney before the five business days and they enter their appearance in your case, then you don’t need to appear for the preliminary inquiry.
Failing to appear for the preliminary hearing, or having an attorney enter their appearance, may delay your case and put your at a disadvantage on your court date.
Paying the moving violation tickets
Almost all DUI arrests begin with a moving violation: speeding, illegal lane change, etc. Along with being charged with a DWI, you may also be ticketed for the moving violations. These violations usually only carry a fine and sometimes have a payable fine you can pay before your court date.
Do not pay these tickets!
If you pay these tickets, then you will get a guilty finding on your record and any points that are associated with the tickets. Typically, if your attorney works out a plea agreement with the State’s Attorney’s Office, then these tickets will be dropped by the prosecutor.
Not completing an alcohol evaluation
Single best thing you can do to mitigate against any adverse consequences of your DUI arrest is to complete an alcohol assessment and education program.
Judges want to know if you are a social drinker or have a serious problem with alcohol. An alcohol assessment helps the court decide what type of punishment is appropriate.
An experienced DUI attorney can help you find an appropriate alcohol education and treatment provider.
Schedule a free Maryland DUI consultation today
Avoid the most common DUI arrest mistakes by scheduling a free consultation today.
Maryland DUI Attorney Ross W. Albers offers a free consultation to explain and review your Maryland DUI arrest. During your free consultation, Albers & Associates will review the facts, charges, MVA consequences and possible criminal penalties of your Maryland DUI case.
Albers & Associates is a member of the National College for DUI Defense. Maryland DWI Lawyer Ross W. Albers was selected by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in Criminal Defense: DUI.
Contact Albers & Associates today to schedule a free consultation. Evening and weekend appointments are available.
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