3 Tips To Prepare Yourself For Your DWI Trial
If you have recently been pulled over, arrested, and charged with driving while under the influence (DWI), you are probably incredibly nervous about your upcoming court date. Although you might not want to think about it, it's important to realize that more and more jurisdictions are cracking down on DWI offenders, and you could be facing probation, loss of your driver's license, stiff penalties and fines, and even jail time.
Being nervous isn't going to do much about your situation, however, so it's important to instead focus on preparing yourself for your court date. Luckily, taking a few proper steps will help ensure that things go as smoothly as possible when you go to court.
1. Hire a DWI Lawyer
You may have heard advice from friends to save your money and defend yourself instead of hiring a lawyer, but this isn't a good idea in most cases. Your lawyer can look at the specifics of your case and can help you protect yourself. Plus, you're probably going to feel more comfortable if you have an ally when you head into the court room.
2. Seek Substance Abuse Treatment
One of the best ways to prepare yourself for your DWI trial or court hearing is by attending substance abuse treatment. Judges and prosecutors like to see that defendants feel bad about their actions and that they are taking the proper steps to better themselves after one of these charges. The substance abuse treatment that is right for you is going to vary based off of your situation and level of alcohol dependency, so it's a good idea to see a substance abuse counselor first. Then, you can focus on getting help through meetings, inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient rehabilitation, or a combination of the three.
3. Serve Community Service
In many areas, DWI offenders are required to serve community service as a part of the consequences of their crimes. Talk to your lawyer, one like Garrett Law Firm, PA; there might be a chance that you can do your community service before your court date, which can help you look better in front of the judge.
Going to court for a DWI can be terrifying, but it can be made a lot easier and more pleasant if you are properly prepared. Luckily, if you take these three steps before you go to court, things should go as well as possible when you stand in front of the prosecutor and judge.
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