What can you expect after a DWI arrest
If you have been arrested for a DWI, or Driving While Intoxicated, you will likely want to know what you can expect to happen in the coming days and weeks. This can be a very frightening and stressful
experience, but if you take the right steps, you can greatly minimize the long term impacts. It is important to note that each case will be somewhat different, so we can’t predict exactly what will happen in yours. In general, however, you will go through most of the following steps in your case.
DWI Arrest & Incarceration
When you get pulled over for suspicion of driving while intoxicated in Nassau County or Suffolk County, you will likely be asked to perform several roadside tests. These could include a breathalyzer or other activities to see whether or not you are intoxicated. If the officer believes you are, you will be placed under arrest. From here, you will either be brought to a medical facility for a blood test, or directly to the jailhouse for processing.
Once you get to the jailhouse, you will want to contact an attorney as fast as possible. If you have our number, call it right away. If not, call a family member and ask them to reach out to us on your behalf.
Once you are under arrest, you don’t want to answer any questions or provide any information to the police until you have a DWI attorney with you. You will likely have to spend the night in jail, and then you can be bailed out the following day.
Prior to the Hearing
Once you are bailed out of jail, you can generally live your life like normal. During this time, you will want to meet with your DWI lawyer to discuss your case. You will want to provide your attorney with all the information you can remember about the entire event, leaving out no details. This is important because even the smallest things can often have a big impact on the outcome of your case.
You will typically have your case scheduled to be heard in front of a judge sometime within the next month or so, depending on which courthouse you need to go to. We have represented people in courthouses throughout Long Island, NYC, Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens, so no matter where it is, we can help you with all the details.
Going to Court
Once you know your court date, you will want to make plans to arrive early and prepared. While your attorney will handle the bulk of the work, you want to make sure you look your best and know what to expect. The first thing that will have to be decided is what plea you want entered. There are some times when your attorney will be able to negotiate a reduced penalty if you plead guilty. Of course, you can always have your attorney fight your case in front of the judge to attempt to be found not guilty.
Once you’ve either settled the case or the judge has pronounced a judgment, you will have to pay any fines and complete any punishment. For a first time arrest, this will likely consist of community service and possibly a suspended license. For repeat offenders, this could include jail time and long term suspension of your driver’s license.
If you have any questions about your specific case, make sure to call us right away. We can be reached at 646-397-9529. We would be happy to discuss your case, and represent you in court.