New Mexico driving under the influence (DUI) charges can change your life in a single moment. Police observations and events leading up to and after your arrest are admissible as evidence in court to prove your guilt. However, you can take proactive measures to protect your case from the outset by keeping a few simple principles in mind.
Taos DUI attorney, Marc A. Grano, offers seven crucial things you should do after being charged with a DUI in New Mexico. While all cases are unique, Grano Law Offices, P.C. wrote this article to help people facing charges or their concerned loved ones with the aftermath of an arrest.
1. Speak with an Experienced DUI Attorney
You may want legal advice to protect your charges if you have been arrested for DUI. An experienced DUI firm licensed in New Mexico, like Grano Law Offices, P.C., can help you determine your legal options after an arrest. Start with an initial consultation to understand defense options, potential outcomes, and the law firm’s results, so you have the information you need to decide.
2. Avoid Self-Incriminating Statements
You can do nothing once the police have decided to arrest you for DUI aside from engaging in the legal process. It would be best not to speak with the police, even with evidence of innocence. Instead, you should give this evidence to your attorney so they can figure out how to best use it in a favorable light where possible. Never speak to the police without your attorney present to avoid self-incriminating statements.
3. Schedule an MVD License Revocation Hearing
If you refuse to take a breath test or if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is higher than the legal limit, the arresting officer may confiscate your license. Additionally, the officer must provide you with a Notice of Revocation. It will be submitted to the Motor Vehicle Division under the Implied Consent Act per NMSA § 66-8-105, which will automatically revoke your driver’s license following your arrest, regardless of whether you appear in court. IN ORDER TO AVOID AN AUTOMATIC REVOCATION, you MUST submit a REQUEST FOR ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING along with a $25.00 money order within ten (10) days of your arrest. If hired early enough, your attorney may submit the demand for administrative hearing on your behalf and represent you at the administrative hearing.
4. Write Down the Names of Witnesses
You were most likely with others before your arrest. When you get out of jail, you should start documenting where you went and the people you met. These witnesses may be able to help your case. Your lawyer might contact these witnesses to establish if they have any pertinent information. We can coordinate and meet with them on your behalf while following proper legal procedures.
5. Reserve Potential Evidence
There may be additional evidence to support your case and potential witnesses. If you were at a bar or restaurant before your DUI arrest, you could request a copy of your bill to prove you were not impaired while driving. You can also see if the restaurant has security cameras, which could prove that you did not consume excessive amounts of alcohol. This information, however, should only be shared with your attorney. If your lawyer thinks the evidence is valuable, they will know how to use it strategically.
6. Follow Your Lawyer’s Advice
It is critical that you follow the advice your attorney gives you. Your lawyer is obligated to act solely in your best interests. As a result, you must have faith in your attorney. Before you hire one, look into their qualifications, experience, results, and other details. This field of criminal defense is rapidly evolving; an agile legal team focusing on DUI defense should be able to demonstrate exceptional proficiency in this arena.
Start Getting Answers About Your Case
Defending DUI charges is complicated and has many challenges. Your attorney must receive and evaluate all available evidence before your case and conduct a thorough defense investigation prior to a trial. Before your case is ready for trial, your attorney may need to file several motions, hire expert witnesses, and attend several hearings. DUI cases are not like most criminal cases. Look for an attorney well-versed in DUI law, like Marc A. Grano, to pursue your legal objectives. Our firm has handled numerous DUI cases throughout northern and central New Mexico and consistently demonstrates the ability to defend our clients while obtaining demonstrably favorable outcomes.
Schedule Your Free Case Strategy Session Now
Grano Law Offices, P.C. welcomes you to get no-cost, no-obligation advice from a highly experienced and successful legal team if you were arrested for a DUI in northern or central New Mexico. Schedule your Free Case Strategy Session by calling (505) 426-8711 or messaging us below. Can’t travel to our office? No problem; we can arrange a secure video conference at your convenience.
