How To React Following A DUI Arrest in Richmond, Virginia

It can be an unpleasant experience and, if not handled properly, it can also prove to be costly. Getting arrested for DUI can be scary, confusing, and stressful. How should you react following a DUI arrest in Richmond, Virginia?

What is at stake with this arrest is not insignificant. A first offense can mean a sizable fine and a one-year suspension of your driver’s license. If it isn’t the first offense, the consequences can be even more significant.

The first thing to do is submit to the breath or blood test. In Virginia, failure to submit to this test is likely to result in a one-year suspension of your driver’s license (https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/webdoc/pdf/dmv168.pdf). That means that, even if you are not guilty of DUI, your refusal to submit to being tested would result in significant punishment.

The next step is to contact an attorney. It is important to contact a traffic driving attorney rather than someone who does not specialize. The reason for this is that traffic laws are complex and frequently changing. It is important to have an attorney whose job it is to focus on handling DUI cases.

Another step in the process is to post bail. This is often a requirement after an arrest for DUI. This can mean enlisting a bondsman. An attorney who specializes in handling DUI cases can assist in the bail process.

The next step is to request a DMV hearing. Again, this is something that an experienced attorney will assist in.

Finally, there is the process of preparing for your arraignment. This can be handled by your attorney. In fact, you may not have to appear at the arraignment; instead, the attorney handles this.

While a DUI arrest can be an unpleasant and even scary experience, there is help available. If you or a loved one have been arrested for DUI in Richmond, Virginia, contact someone who can help to protect your rights. Contact an expert DUI attorney in Richmond VA.