You begin the drive home after a night out on the town with your friends. Blue and red flashing lights in your rearview mirror say you might have made the wrong decision to drive when you had a few drinks. What happens now? What happens if you get arrested? Here are the three things you should do after a DUI arrest.
1. Remain silent
The arresting officer should read you your Miranda Rights. Once you acknowledge your rights, say nothing else. The police officer cannot determine your guilt or innocence, but he or she may have to give witness testimony during your trial. The court may use anything you said at the time of the arrest against you.
2. File the correct paperwork
Not only do you have to worry about criminal charges, but there is also the issue of retaining your license, which is a civil matter. At the time of the arrest, the police officer may have given you a DDS Form 1205. The form is a temporary driving permit, but also an official notice of your possible driver’s license suspension. You have 30 days after the date of arrest to file an appeal with the Georgia Department of Driver Services to avoid an immediate suspension of your license.
3. Show up to court
You may have both criminal and civil court hearings, so keep track of your hearing dates. Try to get to the courthouse at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. Arriving early may allow you enough time to get through security and get yourself prepared for the hearing. The court will not wait for you if you are late, and you will have to reschedule for another time.