If you’ve been pulled over for DUI in Arizona, it’s natural to worry about what you could have done differently. Attorney Nick Alcock explains what to do and what happens after a DUI arrest to limit the evidence against you and how to avoid a longer DUI license suspension in AZ.
If you’ve been arrested for a DUI in Arizona, it’s natural to look back and wonder what you could have done differently during the stop. However, what’s done is done, and the important question is: where do you go from here?
When you’re pulled over, the officer is already observing your behavior before even approaching your vehicle. They assess things like how you’re driving, how you parked, and whether you show signs of impairment such as slurred speech or bloodshot eyes. You’re also expected to provide your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. The best response in this situation is to respectfully inform the officer that you’d prefer to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. This limits the evidence they can collect.
If you’re taken to the station, the situation shifts. You’ll face the decision of whether to submit to a breathalyzer or allow a blood test. In most cases, it’s advisable to comply—refusal can result in a one-year license suspension. However, if you have prior DUIs or other complications, it’s wise to request legal advice before proceeding.
It’s easy to get caught up in “what if” thinking after an arrest, but dwelling on the past won’t help. Instead, focus on moving forward. Nick Alcock and his team are committed to finding positive solutions and helping you navigate through the legal process. They offer free consultations, and their goal is to reduce your stress and find the best possible outcome for your case.
If you need help with a DUI or any other criminal charge in Arizona, call Nick Alcock at 602-989-5000.
Be cautious about what you say and do after the arrest. Conversations in the police vehicle or station are often recorded. Avoid discussing your case or making any statements without your Arizona DUI attorney present, as these can be used against you in court.
One of your most critical rights is the right to remain silent. You are not obligated to answer any incriminating questions, such as whether you have been drinking. Politely decline to answer these questions by saying something like, “I’m sorry, officer, but I would like to remain silent.” This can prevent you from unintentionally providing evidence that could be used against you in court.
In Arizona, you have the right to refuse field sobriety tests, such as the walk-and-turn or the one-leg stand test. These tests are highly subjective and often used to gather evidence against you. Refusing field sobriety tests is within your rights and can help limit the evidence the prosecution can use against you. However, refusing a breath or blood test may pose consequences such as DUI license suspension in AZ.
Having a DUI attorney early in the process to brief you on what happens after a DUI arrest is essential. They can challenge the validity of the traffic stop, the administration of sobriety tests, and the accuracy of chemical testing. Your attorney might also find procedural errors or violations of your rights that could lead to the suppression of evidence.
It’s natural to feel stress, shame, and regret after a local DUI arrest. Instead of dwelling on what happens after a DUI arrest, focus on the positive steps you can take now. At Alcock & Associates, we prioritize finding solutions and helping you move forward. Our goal is to reduce your stress, provide you with the best legal options, and guide you toward a positive outcome.
If you’ve been pulled over for DUI in Arizona, don’t wait—contact us online or call us at 602-989-5000 to schedule a free consultation with one of our leading Phoenix DUI defense lawyers. The goal is to get you out of the mess and create a path to a better future.
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Phoenix AZ 85004