When Texas drivers get behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they are likely not thinking that they will get pulled over, charged, or arrested. When they see the flashing lights of a police officer in their rear view mirror, they may wonder what will happen after they get their first DUI.
Getting accused of driving while under the influence is not pleasant. In most cases, a person can expect to be arrested and serve some jail time. The amount of time one will stay in jail varies depending on the judge and other circumstances surrounding their arrest. In some cases, all that is required is for an individual to post bail. This, of course, is pending on the fact that they are no longer under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
It is likely that a follow-up court date will be scheduled. During this court appearance, a person may expect to have a license suspended, to be forced to pay a fine, or to have other penalties imposed. Being arrested, being handcuffed, and being taken to jail will likely be part of a person’s first experience with a DUI. Likely, some form of testing will be done, be it a breath test, urine test, or a blood test, to show how much of the offending substance is in the individual’s body.
If this is a person’s first offense, they may be released on bail and be given a probation sentence. It’s likely they will be given a monetary fine and may be required to attend a DUI school designed to teach offenders why it is so dangerous to drive under the influence.
In view of the serious consequences a person could experience when arrested for driving under the influence, many have opted to use the services of a criminal defense attorney. A criminal defense attorney might work with their client in reviewing the circumstances surrounding their arrest. They may examine any evidence and police reports with their client. They might provide their clients assistance from the moment of their arrest throughout the entire judicial process.
