Getting stopped by the police and ending up arrested for DUI is the first of many unpleasant experiences to come. If the driver was seriously impaired, then, frankly, it’s to everyone’s benefit (including the driver’s) that he/she was prevented from driving further. There could have been a catastrophic accident.
That said, whether or not the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs (including prescription drugs), many drivers do almost everything wrong after being stopped. Our constitutional rights are there to protect citizens from the government; they are a bulwark against over-reaching government officials. They are not just words to be ignored.
This brings us to one of the worst things that someone can do when arrested. In Washington, the Advice of Rights form that the officer will ask you to sign has two places for a signature. The FIRST signature space is an acknowledgment that the rights have been read and understood. When you sign in the first spot, you are stipulating that the rights were read and understood (whether you actually understand them or not).
DO NOT SIGN the SECOND signature space on the Advice of Rights form! If you do, you are GIVING UP your constitutional rights! Also, you MUST write on the form that that you wish to exercise your constitutional rights and speak to a DUI Lawyer in Burlington WA before questioning. Tell this to the officer also, as many times as necessary. Do so politely, but do so.
When stopped, the officer will ask to see your license, registration and insurance information. These MUST be produced when asked for. You MUST get out of the car and stand where the officer says to stand. The officer will be watching to see how steady you are on your feet and whether or not you need to use the car for balance. At the police station, you MUST take a breath test (or face very expensive driving restrictions, including an interlock device and license).
You SHOULD NOT take any type of sobriety exercise or test when you are stopped. Doing any testing at the scene will hurt your case. It will not help you, period.
The Howson Law Office focuses on DUI defense and offers vigorous assistance with the courts and DOL hearings. Protect your reputation and future by calling a very experienced DUI Lawyer in Burlington WA. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your options.
