A Drunk Driving Conviction Could Wreck Your Life
Arkansas courts take drunk driving very seriously. If a police officer pulls you over for suspected drunk driving, do not expect any leniency. First, they will subject you to a slew of field testing. Then, you will need to act quickly or risk fines, jail time and loss of your license.
The legal questions about drunk driving pop up right away: Do I need to have a specific blood alcohol content? Can I refuse a field test? Is there any way to fight the allegations? A DWI lawyer from Catterlin & Arnold Law Firm can help you understand your charges and options for defense in Arkansas. You need an excellent DWI lawyer on your side. Call 479-339-0778 today to set up a consultation.
Why You Need A Dedicated DWI Attorney
Fighting DWI/DUI charges requires skill, experience and knowledge of the local court system. Before you do anything else, make sure you have a DWI lawyer who:
- Knows the prosecuting attorneys
- Can negotiate on your behalf
- Will explain all your options
- Has the legal resources you need
- Won’t rest until you’ve gotten the best possible results
There is a wide range of options in most DWI cases. We help you determine if it is in your best interest to pursue a deferral program, take a plea or fight the charges in court. Whichever option is best for you, we are by your side to the very end.
Answers To Common Questions About Arkansas DUI Charges
It’s perfectly understandable to be filled with questions after a drunk driving arrest. Below, we’ve provided answers to some of the questions most often asked by prospective clients.
Do I have any defense options for fighting my DWI Charges?
In most cases, clients have more options than they realize. Although your specific options will depend on the details of your case, commonly used DWI defense strategies include:
- Challenging the legality of the traffic stop – Did the officer have reasonable suspicion to pull you over?
- Questioning the accuracy of breathalyzer or field sobriety tests
- Examining whether the officer deviated from protocol or made mistakes in the administration of tests
- Examining body camera or dashcam footage and comparing it to the officer’s notes and written testimony to look for inconsistencies.
- Demonstrating that your rights were violated during the arrest process
You won’t know your full list of options until you consult an experienced defense attorney. It is unwise to plead guilty or admit any criminal behavior without first speaking to a lawyer.
Can a DWI charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, under certain circumstances, a DWI charge can be reduced or dismissed. This may occur if there are issues with how evidence was collected, or if there are mitigating factors that can be presented in your defense. It’s important for your lawyer to act quickly and to speak directly with prosecutors. The sooner you call a defense attorney, the more legal options you may be able to exercise.
What should I do if I get pulled over on suspicion of DWI?
If pulled over, remain calm and polite. Provide your license and registration, but remember that you have the right to remain silent. Don’t give police any more information than absolutely necessary.
You can refuse field sobriety tests and a portable breathalyzer test without facing legal consequences for doing so. However, an officer might choose to arrest you anyway. If you are required to take a chemical test (blood, breath or urine) after being arrested, there will be consequences for refusal. In any arrest scenario, it is in your best interests to request an attorney before agreeing to answer questions.
Why should I hire a lawyer if I plan to plead guilty?
As noted above, a good lawyer will protect your rights, explain your legal options and help you mitigate the consequences you are facing. A plea deal may ultimately be the best option for you, but you won’t know that until a lawyer examines the strengths and weaknesses of the case. Even if a plea deal is the best option, your lawyer can almost certainly obtain a better deal than what you could negotiate on your own.
An Aggressive Defense From Attorneys Who Know How To Help
If you need a competent, aggressive, dedicated DWI lawyer in Northwest Arkansas, you need Catterlin & Arnold Law Firm. You can schedule a time to sit down with our attorneys either by phone at 479-339-0778 or by sending us an email.