Answering A Couple Of Questions About DWI Charges
Facing a criminal charge of driving while intoxicated can be a serious problem to encounter, but it can be easy to get this charge if you make the mistake of driving too soon after having even just a few drinks. If you are not particularly informed about DWI charges, learning the following answers to common questions will help you to be prepared if you must face this problem in the future.
Can't You Just Refuse A Breathalyzer Test?
It can be a common practice for police to request you to take a breathalyzer test. However, it can be common for individuals to be unsure of how they should proceed if they know they have been drinking. While it may seem like taking this breathalyzer exam would be a bad choice, there are many states that impose harsh penalties on individuals that refuse to submit to this type of test. For example, some states may require your license to be automatically suspended for six months to a year for refusing this test.
What Should You Expect If You Are Convicted Of A DWI?
Following a DWI conviction, it is possible for you to face a number of serious consequences. In particular, this can include the revocation of your license, harsh monetary penalties, drug addiction classes and jail time. Additionally, you may be far more likely to lose any civil lawsuits that result over damages from your intoxicated driving if you were convicted of a DWI stemming from the event. For those that had children in the car at the time of the offense, it is possible to face an additional criminal charge of child endangerment, which may cause you to lose custody of your child.
Due to these severe consequences, you should make sure to seek the services of an aggressive defense attorney when you are facing these accusations. An attorney that has experience representing clients in DWI cases--such as Thomas A Corletta--will understand the numerous factors that can skew the results of a blood or breathalyzer test. Also, these professionals may be able to help negotiate your charges down to something less severe than a DWI. While hiring a defense attorney can represent a sizable investment, it can be more than worth it to avoid the potentially devastating results that can follow a DWI conviction.
How Can You Help Yourself Avoid This Charge?
Sadly, it can be difficult for people to know whether or not they are legally safe to operate their automobile because alcohol impacts each person differently. Fortunately, it is possible for you to buy a miniature breathalyzer that can be attached to your key chain. By simply using this device, you will be able to have a better idea of whether or not you are under the legal limit.
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