Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a specific legal term, which can mean that you are pulled over and subjected to sobriety tests—or that you are arrested for driving under the influence. There are multiple DUI cases every year.
If you have been arrested or pulled over for a DUI, you should know your rights. An experienced, expert lawyer can intervene on your behalf—whether you’ve just been stopped, or you’ve already been arrested.
DUI-related laws are different for every state. In Arizona, you could be arrested for a DUI under implied consent laws.
A DUI can happen to anyone, whether you’re guilty or not.
Here’s more about Scottsdale DUI laws, and what you should know.
What is a DUI?
The term “DUI” is short for Driving Under the Influence.
The phrase usually implies that someone is in the driver’s seat, while under the influence of legal or illegal substances.
A DUI arrest or stop doesn’t automatically make someone guilty of the offense. Usually, the case proceeds to court—and this is where you might need a professional DUI lawyer the most.
This isn’t limited to alcohol alone, even though alcohol-related arrests make up a large percentage of yearly cases.
Officers might stop someone suspected of driving under the influence. Usually, officers might also request a breathalyzer or blood test.
Would you know what your rights are at this point?
What is Implied Consent?
Implied consent is another legal term, which means that someone implies their automatic permission. For some states, officers have implied consent to search or stop someone because they’re in the driver’s seat.
However, you can still refuse a random search in many cases and request for your lawyer to be present.
If you’re ever stopped for a suspected DUI, you’ll want to know which number to call.
Make sure that your lawyer is on the line, and you’re less likely to turn a DUI stop into an arrest.
If it’s already too late, you’ll need a DUI lawyer to represent your case in court.
When Do I Need a DUI Lawyer?
A DUI lawyer can be useful at any point during a DUI stop or arrest.
For example, you might want to call your lawyer if you are stopped for a suspected DUI. Officers usually have to allow someone to have their lawyer present, but only if they know they’re allowed to ask for it.
If you are arrested for a suspected offense, you can also choose to call your lawyer once you’ve been booked.
A lawyer can also be crucial for cases proceeding to court. A professional DUI lawyer can help prepare an effective defense.
Lawyers understand the technical points of DUI law, as well as the intricacies of local state laws.
Would you have several years to read through cases and prepare your own court appearance?
Hire a professional Scottsdale DUI lawyer instead.
Why Do I Need a DUI Lawyer?
A DUI lawyer helps prepare your case. A lawyer might be able to get the case the consideration and attention it needs, while also being able to navigate the complicated court system.
Without a lawyer, most people make their situations worse even if they’re not guilty.
A DUI lawyer can make sure your case is being fairly handled. If you are facing fines or penalties, a lawyer can bring forth a clear argument to reduce your final penalty.
The majority of people don’t know what to do during a DUI case, especially if it’s their first one. A professional Scottsdale DUI lawyer can guarantee that you see a fair case.
Can I Refuse a DUI Test?
Sometimes, yes.
When you’re stopped for a suspected DUI, you might be subjected to a breathalyzer or drug test. Under some circumstances, you might be able to refuse the test.
There are certain legal criteria that have to be met in order to refuse a DUI test or stop. However, the best thing you can do under these circumstances is to get on the phone with your lawyer.
Never argue with officers or attempt to resist arrest. This can worsen the circumstances surrounding your case. Instead, make sure you’ve got a lawyer to call.
A lawyer can be an important negotiator if you’re facing arrest or interrogation.
Are DUI Laws Different in Every State?
Yes.
Even though there are federal guidelines for DUI cases, each state has different DUI laws. Depending on where you are stopped or arrested, your case might be handled differently.
State laws dictate specific rules, such as when you’re able to refuse a DUI test.
The best option is hiring a lawyer with local experience. A Scottsdale DUI attorney is trained in how to handle local cases, and can best represent your case.
If you’re stopped or arrested in Scottsdale, would you know who to contact?
Does a DUI Always Go To Court?
The majority of DUI cases proceed to court.
A suspected DUI could lead to an arrest, which might have one (or several) court appearances depending on its seriousness.
it’s best to have a lawyer from your first court appearance or before.
However, you can hire a lawyer to handle your case at any point.
What Happens During a DUI Arrest?
A DUI arrest means that you will be taken into custody.
This means being accompanied to the nearest station, where you are entered into the system and processed.
However, this is a good point to call your lawyer. Bail and other options are available. but are much easier to negotiate with a lawyer’s help.
When they’re more serious, DUI offenses can lead to lengthy jail times and extensive fines.
What About Scottsdale DUI Law?
Scottsdale DUI laws are specific, and governed by the state laws of Arizona.
If you’ve been stopped or arrested for a Scottsdale DUI, make sure that you’ve already got a lawyer to call.
Legal representation is reassurance for tough situations, and guarantees fair representation both on the road and in court.
Never be without your lawyer.