Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious charge in Louisiana. You may be wondering, “What happens when you get a DUI in Shreveport, LA?” If you are facing DUI charges, it’s important to understand what typically happens and how an attorney can help.
Each case is different, and the specific charges you may be facing after a DUI arrest are not going to be the same as someone else’s. Your likelihood of facing a DUI conviction might depend on your history with the criminal justice system in Louisiana. An attorney familiar with DUI charges in Shreveport can beat your charges or, if that’s not possible, minimize the consequences you may face for a DUI conviction.
DUI Background Information
Across this country, impaired driving is an ongoing safety issue. Louisiana, specifically, ranks in the top ten most dangerous states for impaired drivers. During 2022, approximately 31 percent of all recorded car collisions here were alcohol-related. Our fatality rate for impaired drivers is about 4.5 per 100,000 people. As you can see, alcohol-impaired driving remains a significant issue for drivers throughout our state.
What Happens If You Get a DUI in Shreveport, Louisiana?
If you are pulled over and suspected of driving under the influence, you would typically:
- Take a field sobriety test: Once pulled over, you are typically asked to take a breathalyzer, blood, or urine test. There is no reason to refuse these tests, as your refusal can result in harsher penalties.
- Be arrested: This begins the legal process, and it’s important to contact an attorney right away.
- Have your license suspended: Your license may be automatically suspended after an arrest, but you can request an administrative hearing within this period to challenge the suspension.
If you are arrested for a DUI, expect state prosecutors to take the charges very seriously since the risk of harming other drivers on the roadways remains high. It’s worth discussing your charges with an attorney since a conviction for a DUI can lead to fines, jail time, and a suspended driver’s license, even for a first offense. Penalties become more severe for repeat offenders, potentially including higher fines and a felony charge for a third or fourth offense.
If you need to resolve a DUI charge, reach out to an experienced Shreveport attorney who is familiar with DUI cases and has a long record of success in them. When you hire an attorney, they can handle your specific situation and charges.
Hire a Shreveport DUI Lawyer
Kinley Law Firm should be your first call after a DUI arrest. As part of our dedicated criminal defense practice, we understand Louisiana’s complicated DUI laws, so we know how to challenge the evidence the government intends to use against you. As a former prosecutor, Bryce Kinley understands how prosecutors build their cases, and he can use this knowledge to benefit your defense case. He can identify any procedural errors made by law enforcement and negotiate to potentially reduce your charges or penalties.
Kinley Law Firm can:
- Evaluate your case.
- Represent you in court.
- Prepare court documents.
- Provide objective advice.
- Negotiate on your behalf.
- Mitigate any negative consequences.
Contact us to hear how we can help with your DUI charges.
FAQs About What Happens When You Get a DUI in Shreveport, LA
Does a DUI Lawyer Protect My Rights During a DUI Case?
Yes, the role of your DUI lawyer is to protect your legal rights throughout your DUI case. When you partner with an attorney, they work diligently to safeguard all your rights during your legal proceedings. Also, they can prevent a license suspension or work to get your license reinstated if it’s already been suspended. Contact a trusted Louisiana lawyer to hear about the ways they can protect your legal rights during a DUI case.
Can a Prior DUI Impact a Current DUI Situation in Shreveport, Louisiana?
While a prior DUI conviction can impact a current DUI situation in Shreveport, it isn’t always necessarily the case. Thankfully, a knowledgeable attorney knows how to mitigate the consequences of a DUI case. When you hire a lawyer, it’s their role to explore how to minimize the impact any prior convictions may have on any future DUI situations. Reach out to Kinley Law Firm to hear about our available legal services and how we build solid DUI defense cases.
Am I Required to Hire a DUI Attorney for a DUI Arrest in Shreveport, Louisiana?
While you’re not required to hire a DUI attorney for a DUI arrest in Shreveport, it’s always recommended since an attorney can provide invaluable assistance. Your attorney can provide you with experienced counsel, knowledge of the relevant laws, and crucial support during your case.
If any unexpected challenges arise, you have a professional there who knows the Shreveport DUI laws. They can provide aggressive representation to ensure the most positive outcome possible for your DUI charges.
What Questions Should I Ask a Potential DUI Attorney?
There are many questions you should ask a potential DUI attorney, including:
- What happens after my DUI arrest when you handle my case?
- Do you help clients get their license back?
- What is your fee structure?
- How often should I expect to hear from you?
- What percent of your caseload is dedicated to DUI defense?
- What is your proposed defense strategy for my case?
- What are the possible case outcomes?
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a DUI Lawyer in Shreveport, Louisiana?
How much it may cost to hire a DUI lawyer in Shreveport, LA, can vary, as each attorney sets their own fees. Many law firms, including Kinley Law Firm, can set up an initial consultation to discuss our written fee agreement and what’s included. That way, there won’t be any unexpected surprises. We can talk about your situation, explain how we can help, and go over all the costs that may be associated with your DUI case.
Hire a DUI Lawyer Serving Shreveport, Louisiana
It’s stressful to resolve a DUI charge. Instead of handling your case yourself, reach out to Kinley Law Firm. If you need to hire a DUI lawyer, contact us right away.
