Top 10 DWI Mistakes

Have you been arrested for allegedly drinking & driving? If so, it is important to recognize just how much you have on the line. The criminal process can be extremely difficult and without the proper guidance, it is far too easy to get confused or unclear about the next steps. I am attorney Chris Samuelson and I have proudly been practicing as a trial lawyer since 1997. With my years of practice, I have been able to see all kind of mistakes made which caused irreparable damage to DWI cases. Below, I have summarized some of the top 10 most common and most damaging mistakes which I've seen – things that should be avoided at all costs. This, however, is only a glance over some of the mistakes. For more comprehensive protection of your rights, contact a lawyer today!

Some of the most common mistakes made in DWI cases include the following:

Misunderstanding the gravity of the situation. A DWI is not something to be taken lightly. This charge will continue to haunt you far longer than you might expect, especially if you fail to expunge your file. Before these far-reaching consequences can take effect, though, the charges that might be brought against you could add up to thousands of dollars.

Failing to hire an attorney. An attorney could be the deciding factor in receiving a favorable outcome. With the proper help and guidance that an attorney can provide, you will be able to navigate the legal complexities and overcome any hurdles while taking care of your DWI case.

Not willing to pay the fee for a quality attorney. Though attorney fees can seem steep at times, paying a reasonable fee, rather than the lowest, will assure than a quality attorney will be able to spend the amount of time necessary to protect your interests. The state will often be able to assist you financially when you look for the right attorney to represent you. If you are willing to spend the resources needed to win your case, your attorney will reflect that.

Ignoring driver's license laws. The laws concerning the state of your driver's license after receiving a DWI vary based on the offense. It is vital that you are aware of and regard these laws to avoid a further suspension of your license.

Driving despite your license being revoked. Driving without a license is always illegal; however it is not always this simple. Make sure you are aware of when your license has been revoked. If you have been arrested for driving with a suspended license, an agent from this firm may be able to help you.

Disregarding your constitutional rights. Not all police stops are lawful. Being aware of your Miranda Rights and other important constitutional rights can make a big difference in a fair trial. Make sure the law is working for you and not against you.

Accepting the prosecutor's first offer without contest. Texas courts see a large number of DWI and DUI cases and often desire to complete them as quickly as possible. Do not take the first offer, make the state prove its case. You may be able to win a more favorable verdict than what is first offered to you.

Missing your court date. Missing your court date and not taking immediate action can lead to serious consequences. If you do miss your court date, be sure to immediately talk to your attorney to see what the next appropriate steps are for you to take.

Failing to talk exclusively to your attorney. Your attorney is looking out for your best interests, but that is not necessarily the case with outside parties. In order to assure that anything you say will not be used against you, confide only in your attorney. This will help ensure security and confidentiality in your case.

Seeking the advice of multiple attorneys so you can handle it by yourself. No attorney will know your case as intimately as the one you hire. Hiring and relying on one attorney will ensure continuity and maximum effectiveness in your case. Asking numerous attorneys will lead to conflicting advice and confusion.

These mistakes are common and committed regularly, but can be prevented. In order to avoid any of these mistakes, contact a Houston DWI lawyer today.