What to Do When You're Charged with a DUI in Calgary
If you or a close family member has suddenly been charged with a DUI impaired driving or "driving under the influence" your mind might be reeling. Intimidating statements by the Calgary Police, official notice of charges that could have you facing steep fines and even jail time, and the disruption to your life that this incident can bring are enough to make anyone panic.
First things first: don't give up hope! While a DUI is a serious charge with potentially serious consequences, you still have rights, and one of those rights is raising the most effective defence you can against the impaired driving charges you're facing. You can get help, and there is light at the end of the tunnel. With prompt and careful action, your situation can start to look up.
1. Contact an Experienced Calgary DUI Defence Lawyer After being arrested for a DUI or notified of an impaired driving charge, your first phone call should be to a lawyer with a proven track record of successfully defending DUI cases in Calgary. If you are arrested, the Calgary Police (or other law enforcement agency) must provide you with an opportunity to speak to a defence lawyer as soon as possible. If you are informed of the charges against you without an arrest, you can contact a lawyer immediately. Speaking to a lawyer before speaking to the police or Crown prosecutors is your right, so make use of it!
2. Stay Clean and Be an Asset to Your Calgary Community
There are many ways you might find yourself charged with a DUI, including law enforcement errors, getting behind the wheel feeling fine but with a BAC above the legal limit, or even driving while taking a prescription medicine that law enforcement determines impaired your ability. Whatever the circumstances surrounding your charge, your defence will be best served by you presenting a productive and professional image.
If you need help with an alcohol or drug dependency problem, get ityour defence lawyer may be able to help you find a program in the Calgary area. Successfully completing a program will have positive effects far beyond your DUI case.
3. Let Your Defence Lawyer Guide Your DUI Case Through the Calgary Courts
Contacting an experienced DUI defence lawyer as soon as possible is the first thing you should do. From that moment on, making sure you're listening to your lawyer's advice as your case progresses is essential to ensuring an effective defence. There will be decisions you need to make, and your lawyer will discuss your options with you to ensure you make the right decision for you and your family. Listen to those options, ask questions when you have them, and trust your lawyer to help you protect your rights and your interests.
To speak with a lawyer and discuss the specifics of your Calgary DUI case today, please contact my office to schedule an appointment.