what to do when you get a dui

So, you got a DUI. You are likely nervous and looking for ways to get through the process. Here are 6 tips to get you through: 

1. Bond Out and/or Get a Ride Home: If you were booked in to jail, the first step is to bond yourself out or have a friend/family member bond you out. If not, make sure you have a safe ride home. 
2. Make Sure you know when your court date is set: The Officer will provide you with a citation, or ticket, which will indicate the court date. This is generally written as the following: "You are hereby given notice to appear in court (Court Name), located at (Court address), on or    before (Date) to answer this Charge." This tells you the deadline to contact the Court to set up an initial appearance and arraignment. Make sure you know the date and do not miss it. Make contact with an attorney or the court before that date passes. 
3. Hire An Attorney: It is imperative that you have an attorney for representation in a DUI Matter. Previously we have written about whether you really need a lawyer. We advise you always have a lawyer if you are charged with a DUI. DUI's have several collateral consequences upon conviction (license suspension, stacking penalties, etc.) and it is important to ensure you are well represented. If you cannot afford an attorney, you can ask the Court to appoint a public defender for this representation.
4. Make sure you know the status of your driver's license: Do not drive until you are sure of the status of your license. If you provided a breath test, it is likely your license is valid. This may change if you are convicted at a later date, but in the meantime your license is likely valid. You can check the status of your driver's license here to be safe. If you did not provide a breath test, or refused the breath test, your license is likely suspended under MCA 61-8-1032. Make it a priority to discuss with your lawyer the status of your license and whether you need to take steps to attempt to reinstate your license. License issues can be time sensitive, so make sure to discuss this with your attorney immediately. 
5. Stay out of trouble: The Court will set bond conditions on your case requiring you to stay out of trouble, not use or possess alcohol, and not be in bars. However, even before your initial appearance with the Court, it is a good idea to stay out of trouble and stay out of bars. Make sure you are proving to the Court that you take this matter seriously. 
6. Be Patient: Most of the time, criminal cases move slowly. Trust your attorney, and ask questions when you get nervous, but be patient as the process can take some time.  

We hope this is helpful.

​-Jill