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3 mistakes that can make a DUI charge harder to beat

On Behalf of | Apr 25, 2018 | Blog

Not everyone who is pulled over for suspicion of driving while impaired understands the ways that their behavior and the statements they make during their interaction with law enforcement can hurt their case.

However, if you are dealing with a Minnesota DUI charge, you should be mindful of your actions and words, and avoid these mistakes. 

1. Trying to talk your way out of the situation

It may seem as if admitting you were wrong and made a mistake should be enough to gain some leniency from the police. Or, you may think sharing details about the type and amount of alcohol can help get you out of a DUI charge because, after all, you only had one or two drinks. However, the police officer can use anything you say to him as evidence. You do not have to answer questions about why you think he pulled you over and whether or not you had anything to drink. When asked, respectfully decline to answer those questions. The Fifth Amendment protects against self-incrimination. 

2. Telling the story to your friend on the phone

You may feel tempted to talk about your situation to the person you call to come pick you up from the jail after the authorities release you. However, even though you are not talking to law enforcement, an officer can provide anything he or she overhears to the prosecution as evidence.

3. Not being honest with your defense team 

Whether you feel ashamed, alarmed or amused at your situation, you need to stick to the facts – and include all of them – when you speak to the attorney who will represent you in court. Your representative cannot build the best possible defense if you fail to provide him or her with every detail. Do not let your feelings stand in the way of your DUI defense. Try to recall everything you can to give your attorney an accurate picture of the events that contributed to your situation.

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