Being charged with a DUI can be a frightening experience, especially if you’re under 21. The repercussions of an underage DUI charge in Ohio can be severe and long-lasting, so it’s important to take the proper steps to protect yourself. Here are some things you should do if you find yourself facing an underage DUI charge in Ohio. 

Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer 

One of the most important steps you can take is to contact a lawyer who specializes in underage DUI cases. There are many attorneys who offer free consultations, so make sure to take advantage of this opportunity and ask as many questions as possible. Your lawyer will walk you through the process and explain your rights and the charges against you. 

Understand the Charges Against You 

It’s important to understand exactly what charges have been brought against you and what consequences could result from those charges. Depending on your situation, you could be facing fines, license suspension or revocation, or even jail time. Knowing what penalties could result from your charges will help guide your decisions moving forward.   

Don’t Speak to the Police Without a Lawyer 

Unless you are instructed otherwise by your lawyer, do not speak with the police without an attorney present. Anything that is said during these interactions can be used against you in court, so it is critical to remain silent until legal counsel is present. It may feel uncomfortable not speaking up, but it is necessary to protect yourself from incriminating yourself further down the line.         

Document Your Night – Evidence, Photos, Eyewitnesses 

Take note of any evidence that may help prove your innocence, such as photos or videos taken at the time of arrest or witnesses who saw what happened leading up to it. Documenting any relevant information can help build a strong case.

Know Your Options 

Once you’ve found an experienced underage DUI attorney, they’ll likely sit down with you and explain all available options regarding your case—including plea agreements, diversion programs, or going through with a trial—so you can make an informed decision about how best to proceed.

Prepare for Trial With Your Lawyer 

Once all evidence has been collected and reviewed by both parties involved in the case, it’s time to prepare for trial with your lawyer. This involves reviewing all documents related to your case as well as potentially locating witnesses who may testify. This could include friends who were with you before or during your arrest or anyone else who saw you that night and can testify that you weren’t under the influence. 

What Will an Underage DUI Lawyer Do for Me? 

An experienced legal professional is essential when facing any type of criminal charge, especially for underage DUIs. Your underage DUI lawyer will evaluate your case from all angles to ensure that every detail has been taken into consideration before going to court.

They will ensure that all evidence presented against you is valid while working hard to secure favorable plea bargains or reduced sentences when possible. Your lawyer should also keep you informed throughout the process so that you are aware of any new developments in your case as well as changes that may occur due to shifts in local law enforcement policies over time. 

Additionally, an experienced lawyer will also be familiar with the local judges and prosecutors involved in your case, which could help reduce potential penalties or sentences if possible. Knowing the ins and outs of local laws and procedures can give your attorney an edge when building a defense against any charges or accusations.

Most importantly, your lawyer should be able to provide sound legal advice tailored specifically to meet your individual needs during such challenging times.

Facing an underage DUI charge in Ohio isn’t something anyone should go through alone – having knowledgeable legal representation makes all the difference. If you need help, contact Suhre & Associates for a free consultation. 

Contact the Cincinnati DUI Attorneys at Suhre & Associates, LLC For Help Today

For more information, contact the DUI attorneys at Suhre & Associates, LLC give us a call today at (513) 333-0014 or visit us at our Cincinnati law office.

Suhre & Associates, LLC – Cincinnati
600 Vine Street, Suite 1004
Cincinnati, OH 45202
United States