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05Mar 2021

DUI: Back to the Basics

It is important to remember a few things if you are ever stopped or interrogated for suspicion of DUI. It is easy in a moment of panic or pressure to not keep a level head and forget some of your basic rights. Remember, the police want you to talk as much as possible, so keep cool!

The most important basic to remember is to remain silent. This is the best thing you can do if you are being questioned by the police. Give them your identification and your auto/insurance paperwork. Make sure you call an experienced lawyer, like those at Handy Law, to be with you before you answer questions. Being silent also means not consenting to searches. You do not have to consent to a search of your vehicle.

You also have the right to decline field sobriety tests. If an officer asks you to perform any, simply refuse. They can't make you take them, and they can't use the fact that you refused to against you.

Most states require you by law to take a breathalyzer test upon suspicion of DUI. It is best to refuse to take the breathalyzer out in the field, and wait to take the breathalyzer they have back at the station.

If you have been arrested for or charged with domestic assault, you need a lawyer who understands the law and the experience to defend your rights. If you live in Burlington, Essex, Colchester, Winooski, Williston, Shelburne, or anywhere in the state of Vermont, and have been arrested or charged with DUI or any crime, call Handy Law for aggressive and experienced legal defense.