What should you do the moment you’re facing a DUI arrest? It’s a question thousands of people across Texas are forced to answer every year. According to state data, law enforcement makes millions of arrests annually for suspected impaired driving. The decisions made in those first hours can have a lasting impact on the outcome of the case.
At the Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates, we know how overwhelming this situation feels. With more than 30 years of experience defending individuals throughout South Texas, we are here to provide guidance when it’s needed most.
In this blog, we break down the immediate steps to take after a DUI arrest to help protect your rights and start building a strong defense.
1. Remain Calm and Compliant
The first moments of any DUI arrest are often filled with fear and confusion. It’s critical to stay calm, comply with law enforcement instructions, and avoid any actions that may escalate the situation. Arguing or resisting can lead to additional charges.
2. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
After providing basic identification information, you are not required to answer questions about where you were, what you consumed, or your condition. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely inform the officer that you wish to remain silent until you have spoken with a criminal defense lawyer.
3. Request Legal Representation Immediately
Contacting a DWI attorney as soon as possible is one of the most important actions you can take. A qualified DUI attorney can begin protecting your legal rights, advising you on how to handle police questioning, and reviewing the specifics of your arrest.
4. Document Everything You Can Remember
As soon as you are able, write down every detail about your DUI arrest. Include:
- Where you were stopped
- What the officer said and did
- Field sobriety tests administered
- Whether a breathalyzer or blood test was performed
- Any witnesses present
These details may prove valuable to your DWI lawyer when building your defense.
5. Attend All Court Dates and License Hearings
Missing any scheduled court appearance or administrative license hearing can severely harm your case. Make sure to stay informed of all dates and work closely with your criminal defense lawyer to ensure you are prepared for each proceeding.
Why Acting Fast Matters
Every DUI arrest sets off a chain of legal deadlines. License suspensions, court filings, and evidence collection all happen quickly. Early legal intervention allows your DUI attorney to review the traffic stop, challenge questionable evidence, and advocate for reduced charges or dismissal when possible.
Are you facing the uncertainty of a recent DUI arrest? At the Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates, we understand what’s at stake. For over three decades, we have been defending clients in San Antonio and South Texas, offering 24-hour consultations and personal attention to every case.
Our team speaks Spanish and has deep ties to the local community, allowing us to offer one of the most personalized criminal defense services available. Contact us today to speak directly with a DWI lawyer who knows the courts, knows the prosecutors, and knows how to fight for your rights.
