After getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), you may be wondering what exactly you’ll face as a result. While a DUI will undoubtedly have serious consequences, it doesn’t necessarily mean that your life as you know it will end right then and there. If you’re curious about what specific repercussions a DUI arrest can have on your life as an individual, keep reading. You may even learn something that will help put your mind at ease so that you can move forward with the rest of your day. Here are 5 things to expect after getting a DUI
You’ll Lose Your License
If you get arrested for a DUI, you’ll lose your license almost immediately as a penalty for the offense. This can include things such as not being allowed to drive to work, your children’s activities, doctor’s appointments, and other important events in your life. You may also be prevented from renewing your license if you’re not able to pay off your fines and fees. This is because your license will be held during the process of your trial, and the state will lose out on revenue if you’re not able to drive. This can make it harder to continue your life, so it’s important to avoid this penalty.
You’ll Be Accompanied to Court
In addition to losing your license, you’ll be required to be accompanied to court when your case is heard. This means that you’ll have to travel with a bail bondsman or a buddy who will be responsible for ensuring that you make it there. This is commonly done for those who are unable to pay for their own bail, as it’s required by law. You may also be required to have an attorney accompany you to court. This attorney will be paid by the state, and their job is to help the court determine your guilt or innocence.
You’ll Face an Interrogation at the Police Station
When you’re brought to the station or taken to the precinct for a DUI, you’ll have to endure an interrogation. The purpose of this is to get any additional information about what happened and to try to determine if you’re telling the truth. A detective or an officer may ask you to give a detailed description of the incident. You may be asked where you were, what you were doing, who you were with, and how much alcohol you had in your system. You’ll be advised that it’s your right to remain silent. However, if you choose not to give information during this interrogation, it’s likely that you’ll be charged with obstruction of justice and will have an added charge on your record. If you do not want this to happen, make sure to contact a reputable DUI lawyer in Knoxville who will handle your case.
You’ll Meet with a Probation Officer
After being interrogated at the station, you’ll be brought to a probation officer. This is a state official who will assist you with obtaining services and treatment for your substance use disorder. They’ll be able to provide you with a list of inpatient facilities and programs so that you can begin to make progress. If you’ve been arrested for DUI before, you can typically count on having your probation officer assigned to your case.
You’ll Receive a Summons For Your Criminal Trial
When you’re brought to court, a judge will issue you a summons for your criminal trial. This summons will have all the information about your case, including the charges against you and the time and place of your trial. You can expect that this summons will be in your court file for years to come, so you’ll want to make sure that you have a copy.
Conclusion
While a DUI arrest is always a serious matter, it doesn’t necessarily mean that your life will cease to exist. There are many consequences that you’ll face after being arrested for a DUI for which you can’t really fault yourself. In fact, you’ll be required to lose your license, be accompanied to court, and meet with a probation officer. If you’re interested in learning more, please feel free to visit our blog or social media pages.