1. Behave Innocent & Safe
When a Utah DUI cop stops your vehicle, take a deep breath. Naturally attempt to demonstrate to the cop that there is no problem and that nothing is wrong. Calmly behave non-threateningly. Stop as soon as possible. Pull over and lawfully park in a safe location. Put your vehicle’s overhead lights in the car if it’s nighttime. Gently place your hands on the vehicle’s wheel so the cop can clearly see both hands. Put your window about halfway, although some attorneys say all the way down and a number of lawyers suggest just to crack the window. In any event, try to relax. Deep breaths.
2. Honestly Answer initial Questions but do not Offer Information
Salt Lake City cops are banking that you will do their job of leading to a DUI arrest by saying something borderline-stupid or just admitting to something you don’t have to. Either way, avoid saying the wrong thing. Believe you have done nothing wrong. Think the cop is just curious and earning his pay. Never admit to doing anything wrong or having done anything criminal! Initially answer the cop’s questions honestly without revealing much information.
Remember at any time your right to remain silent, depending on the questions, answers and the cop’s responses. You really only have to give your license, registration and insurance if you encounter a cop after driving.
3. Politely Exercise Your Rights
Prior to arresting you for a Utah DUI, a Salt Lake City area cop will want to have you blow in a hand-held breath test estimator gadget or maybe even look in your vehicle for contraband or evidence. You do not have to let the cop search your vehicle. If the cop arrests you for DUI, tell the cop you do not wish to answer any questions unless you have a Arnold, Wadsworth & Coggins Attorneys – DUI criminal defense lawyer there with you.
The less information which helps the Salt Lake City DUI cop convict you, the better. Less is better for you. That less is better does not always apply. So if you gave more than you had to, you will need the help of an experienced attorney even more, at both court and DMV.
If you are not sure you have an alcohol problem, check out the video clips in this Salt Lake City DUI Lawyer‘s latest blog.
Arnold, Wadsworth & Coggins Attorneys is a premier Utah law firm serving the Wasatch Front in the areas of family law, bankruptcy, criminal law, and civil litigation. Our attorneys provide clients with exceptional legal representation and personal attention. With over 35 years of trial practice and litigation experience, we bring big firm expertise at affordable rates
