A few things are worse than facing a driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge in North Carolina. The consequences can be extreme, especially if you don’t have a plan to defend yourself. Instead of trying to get a grip on the legalese, get the help you deserve by calling an attorney. You don’t need just another lawyer but someone who specializes and has experience in criminal defense. If you have been pulled over for DWI in North Carolina, here are the six steps you need to take.
- Remain in your car. Do not flee the scene when you are asked to stop. Turn the engine off and make sure that you remain in the vehicle. Turn on the lights inside the car so that the officer can see you. Your hands should be on the steering wheel.
- Share the documents. The officer will most likely ask for your documents, which include the driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance details. Give the documents only when asked for and not on your own.
- Avoid suspicious movements. Do not let the officer believe that the situation is dangerous. As we mentioned, keep your hands on the wheel and let them come over. If you are found to be trying to open the box for your documents, the officer may assume that you are getting a weapon.
- Avoid confrontation. Don’t be argumentative as you talk to the officer. People often end up sharing information voluntarily, which can hurt them in court. You have the right to remain silent and refuse to answer questions.
- Do not agree to a field sobriety test. At times, people fail field sobriety tests even when they are not drunk. Ensure that you don’t agree to the test, and you have the right to refuse. The portable breath test is also unreliable, and you can deny that.
- Get an experienced attorney. If you are arrested, call a professional criminal defense lawyer. Find an attorney who specializes in DWI defense, who will explain your rights and work on the legal strategy to get the charges dismissed or reduced, depending on the circumstances.
Courts in North Carolina take intoxicated driving charges seriously, and it is best to work on your defense immediately after you are charged. Call a lawyer without delay so you don’t have to go through the entire situation alone, which can be pretty intimidating. Also, avoid giving a statement when you are asked to.
