Being arrested for and charged with a DUI can be an overwhelming and stressful experience, especially during a holiday weekend. If you’re drinking this 4th of July, it’s important to plan ahead. Make sure you have a designated driver, use a rideshare service, or arrange to stay somewhere sale.
However, if you are charged with a DUI in Virginia during the 4th of Julye weekend, it is important to protect your rights and act quickly to build a strong defense. Here are some important things to remember:
1. Stay Calm and Compliant
If you’re pulled over by law enforcement on suspicion of driving under the influence, remember to remain calm. Do not argue or resist arrest. Be polite and comply when asked for your driver’s license and/or things like registration and proof of insurance. When asked questions that would lead to you admitting guilt, politely decline to answer as way to protect your constitutional right.
2. Know Your Rights
You are not required to answer any questions related to where you have been, if you have been drinking, or how much you have had to drink. In Virginia, you are also not required to perform field sobriety tests or take a preliminary breath test at the scene of the arrest. Both of those roadside tests are voluntary.
However, under Virginia’s Implied Consent Law (§ 18.2-268.2), you are required to submit a breath and/or blood test at the police station after you are arrested for DUI. Refusing to submit a breathalyzer or blood test could result in a civil offense under Virginia Code § 18.2-268.3. If you have already been charged with a civil refusal before, or have a prior DUI, the subsequent charge is elevated to a Class 1 Misdemeanor.
3. Document Everything
Try to recall and document everything related to your traffic stop and arrest. Some details might include where you were stopped, what time you were stopped or what questions you answered. These details may seem minor, but they will be important to share with an attorney.
4. Contact an Attorney Immediately
After you are charged with a DUI, consider contacting a Driving Defense Law attorney as soon as possible. One of our experienced attorneys can guide you through the complex legal process, protect your rights at every stage, and work to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. The sooner we get involved, the more opportunities we have to challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and build a strong defense on your behalf.
Charged With a DUI Over the Holiday Weekend? We’re Here to Help.
Don’t wait to get the legal support you need. At Driving Defense Law, we know how to navigate DUI cases and fight for you. Our team is ready to step in, protect your rights, and guide you every step of the way.
Call us 24/7 at 757-929-0335 for a free consultation or schedule online here.
