Advice on going forward

If you face a DUI charge, you are accused of a serious crime. Whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony, you face the potential loss of license, incarceration, heavy fines and a permanent criminal record. Your first priority must be to find a DUI lawyer to take your case and request an administrative hearing. The earlier you start, the less pressure you will be under to make a decision. You should consider these suggestions in this order:

1. Request an Administrative Hearing

   In Kansas, you have 10 days; in Missouri, you have 15 days. If you do not request your hearing, YOU WILL AUTOMATICALLY LOSE YOUR PRIVILEGE TO DRIVE! The temporary license you received has directions on how to request the hearing. The Angles Law Firm, LLC can help you, but the clock is ticking on a very important part of your case. Do not let time expire.
   



2. Find the Best DUI Lawyer You Can

   The best way to find the most qualified DUI attorney for your case is to first educate yourself about Kansas or Missouri DUI law and process. The more you know, the better poised you will be to evaluate the attorneys you interview.

   The Angles Law Firm, LLC offers free initial consultations, so you have nothing to lose but your license, your freedom, your money, etc. Call today.
   
   

3. Put it in Writing

   While the event is still fresh in your mind, write down everything you remember. You may wish to download and print the DUI Client Questionnaire. This will help both you and your attorney sort through the case. If your case goes to trial, it might be up to year or even longer, so the details may fade.
   



4. Gather Your Witnesses

   If you have civilian witnesses make sure you have their contact information. These can be people who were in the vehicle with you, people who saw you drinking (or who served you), or passers-by who witnesses the field tests. If they are willing to make a written statement, have them put their memory of the events down on paper.
   



5. Get Yourself Checked Out

   If you suffer from any medical condition that may have interfered with your ability to complete the field tests, or which may have misled the officer into believing that you were drunk, get the condition checked and documented by a physician immediately. This holds true if you had a cold. Examples include asthma, allergies, recent concussions or head trauma, inner ear problems, and other medical conditions. An undocumented medical condition will not help you nearly as much as one that is supported by a doctor's records.
   



6. Get Your Vehicle Checked

   If you suspect that a mechanical defect with your vehicle caused the "bad driving" that caused the officer to stop you, get it checked out by a qualified mechanic immediately. If there are problems, gets them documented before they are fixed.