Getting arrested for DUI in Pennsylvania can come with serious consequences. Even if it’s your first offense, a conviction can land you in jail, cost you your license for at least a year and put a mark on your permanent record.
It’s the type of situation a DUI lawyer in Bucks County can help you through, but there are some things you can do on your own if you’ve been arrested for DUI in Pennsylvania.
1. Agree to be tested
In most situations, refusing to take a blood, breath or urine test after a DUI arrest won’t help your case. Pennsylvania has what’s known as the “implied consent” law, which requires a person who has been arrested for a first-time DUI to be tested.
Under the law, refusing to be tested comes with punishments: probation, fines and drug and alcohol treatment. It’s possible to be convicted even without a test, and refusing to take a chemical test can be used as evidence against you.
2. Ask for your own test
State law gives defendants the right to have their blood tested by their doctor. This doesn’t take the place of the test the police will perform, but your attorney can use your test results in your defense.
3. Make a record
Write down everything you can remember about your arrest. Even the smallest detail can help your case. Some things to make a note of:
- Where you were when you were stopped?
- What time was it?
- Why did the police stop you?
- Did they give you a breath test?
- What did you tell the officer about what you ate and drank?
- What kind of field sobriety tests did they perform?
Once you’ve made a record of your arrest, share it with your Bucks County DUI lawyer.
4. Look for witnesses
Track down anyone you know who you encountered immediately before or after – or during – the traffic stop. Ask them if they would be willing to testify, and get them to give statements to your lawyer. Having a strong witness might be what saves you from a conviction.
5. Protect your social networks
Prosecutors will examine your background, and that includes your on-line presence. Mark your profile and your photos as private, and don’t talk about your arrest on Facebook or Twitter. The things you post can make you look bad in the eyes of a jury when shown out of context.
6. Hire a Bucks County DUI lawyer
You should never represent yourself in court, and a DUI case is no exception. An experienced Bucks County DUI lawyer can help you achieve the best possible outcome after your arrest. They can plot different strategies for your defense, examine evidence, question witnesses and make sure your arrest was handled properly.
If you’re looking for an experienced Bucks County DUI lawyer, contact the firm of Penglase and Benson. Our attorneys are dedicated to investigating the circumstances of your arrest, to protect your rights and bring you the best outcome possible for your case.
