If you get pulled over and given a breathalyzer test, you run the risk of serious consequences if the test reveals that you have more than 80 mg of alcohol per 100 mL of blood. These charges over 80 can lead to severe fines, the loss of your license, or even jail time if you don’t do something about them. You should consult with a DUI lawyer as soon as possible, but you should also make sure to follow the steps outlined below so you can provide your lawyer with the best information possible.

Choose Your DUI Lawyer Carefully

Choosing the lawyer who will represent you in court is more than just a matter of typing “DUI lawyers near me into a search engine. You should look for a lawyer who has experience in your region. While a young lawyer might provide the right energy for your defense, it helps if they are attached to an established group where experienced lawyers can help guide them on proper procedures and precedents for your case. If you are unsure of what DUI lawyer you should go with, ask for a consultation. Most experienced DUI lawyers offer free consultations regarding your case so they can show you the kind of defense you will receive if you choose them. This can help you to make an educated decision and can dispel doubts about a particular lawyer if you have any.

Prepare a Written Account

After the incident, you should write down everything you can remember about the traffic stop and any interactions you had with the police following that. If you remember specific language used by the police officer or unusual actions, make sure to note that. Include details such as whether you submitted to a breathalyzer test without complaint or whether you refused to voluntarily take the test. Every piece of information you can provide to your lawyer represents information that may be useful in court. Your lawyer can compare your report with the report made by the arresting officer and other public documents. If your lawyer finds discrepancies, they might benefit you when the trial goes to court.

Stay Out of Trouble

While you can usually expect a swift trial after being charged with driving over 80, you still have time to give your prosecutors more fodder for their court case if you aren’t careful. While you are awaiting trial, make sure to be on your best behavior. While additional traffic stops and arrests aren’t supposed to factor into your case, the judge is only human and can be swayed by a pattern of behavior. Your DUI lawyer will work hard to strike down circumstantial evidence, but poor behavior after a drinking and driving stop can still lead to a harsher sentence than you would get if you stayed on your best behavior.

A drinking and driving arrest can leave you wondering what to do next. If you follow the advice above and consult with a knowledgeable DUI lawyer in your area, you should be able to get through this situation with as little stress and embarrassment as possible.