No one wants to be charged with a DWI. However, if you are confronted with just such a situation, then you want to be prepared as best as possible. If you manage to play your cards right, you might end up having the charges totally dropped.

What is a DWI?

In order to understand how to beat a DWI, you first have to know what it entails. A DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) is usually defined as driving while having a BAC (blood alcohol content) over .08%, However, that rule doesn't always apply. If you happened to commit a crime while under the influence, then you might be charged with a DWI even if your BAC is below .08%. Some substances also have lower thresholds at which they are determined to have an effect on your driving.

What should you do when arrested?

It is absolutely crucial that you keep your calm during the initial arrest. The first thing that will happen is that you will be asked to step out of your car and complete several tests at the behest of the arresting officer. You should comply with their orders, since that can help your case later. Belligerence will only increase the chances that you are convicted. 

You will likely be read your rights, placed in handcuffs, and driven to the police station in the back of a squad car. Try to remember as many details as possible. Certain omissions by the police officer (such as a failure to read you your rights) may be enough to get the charges dropped.

Try not to say anything that you don't need to. Self-incrimination is the last thing that you want.

What comes next?

You will be brought to the police station and booked. You should immediately ask for your lawyer and then privately discuss your charges with him or her. Tell your lawyer absolutely everything that happened, down to the smallest detail. You might not know which facts are important and which are not, but your lawyers knows exactly which elements of your case could be the key to your freedom.

You also don't want to lie under any circumstances, even if you think it may help your case. Even if the lies are small and seemingly insignificant, they can sabotage your appearance of integrity before the judge.

At this point, your lawyer will tell you exactly how the trial will progress and what your chances are of winning. If you can make bail, you will be given an opportunity to do so.

Click here for more information, or contact a local DWI lawyer.