You Were Arrested For Drunk Driving, Now What?
It’s frightening to be arrested for any crime, let alone drunk driving when you may not be fully aware of your surroundings. Here’s what you can expect after a drunk driving arrest and where to get legal assistance.
If You Need Medical Care, You May Go to the Hospital
You may be brought to the emergency department for medical treatment if you were in a vehicle collision or are excessively drunk. A sample of blood may be taken from you at this time to assess the amount of alcohol in your body, also known as your BAC.
You’ll Be Booked at the Police Station
You will be transported to the police department for processing as soon as you are discharged from the hospital. You’ll be searched, fingerprinted, and have your criminal photo — also known as a mugshot — taken here. The police may or may not attempt to question you. If they do, it’s critical that you remain silent until you talk with a criminal defense attorney.
You’ll Then Be Transported to Jail For Drunk Driving
In your county, the police department may or may not be connected to the jail. If necessary you’ll be transported, but either way, you’ll stay in jail until your first appearance in front of a judge. The entire booking process can take a while, and it’s possible that your first appearance hearing will not be until the next business day. If you were arrested on a holiday or weekend, this may be even longer.
You, Will, Appear In Front of a Judge
You’ll usually make your initial appearance in front of the court while you’re still in jail. You’ll be informed of the accusations against you and possible penalties you face, and you’ll learn how much bond you’ll have to pay to be released before your next court date.
At this point, many detainees haven’t yet hired a lawyer or they are waiting to be assigned a public defender. However, getting a criminal defense attorney on board as soon as possible can help you during this initial hearing as well. Your lawyer can potentially help lower your bond amount or request that you be released on your own recognizance.
You May Be Released or Stay Until Your Trial
If you are unable to post bond, you may be required to remain in law enforcement custody until your upcoming court hearing. If you can, however, post bail, you can go home and work until your court date.
When to Call an Experienced Drunk Driving Lawyer
Don’t lose your rights after being arrested for drinking and driving. Call Cape Cod criminal defense lawyer Thomas Kokonowski today for a consultation at 774-531-2689.
