Dui: From Booking To Bail

The last place you want to find yourself is on the side of the road for suspicion of DUI. While it’s possible you may be able to escape an arrest, not everyone is this fortunate.

If you’re arrested for suspicion of DUI, it’s imperative to keep calm and follow the directions given by the officer. Resisting arrest or acting difficult will only make things worse.

Here are some of the many things you can expect during booking (also known as processing):

• An officer will collect your personal information, such as name and date of birth
• An officer will record information regarding your alleged crime
• A record search is run to better understand your criminal background
• Photographs and fingerprinting
• You’re required to turn over all personal property

If you’re placed in a holding cell, your primary concern is securing your release as soon as possible. This is typically done in one of two ways: bail or an “own recognizance” release.

With bail, you’re permitted to pay a specific amount of money in exchange for your release. At this time, you agree to appear in court for all future proceedings.

The amount of bail is typically determined by a bail schedule. However, depending on the circumstances, a judge may set a figure based on factors such as:

• Seriousness of the offense
• Criminal history, with an eye toward any DUI convictions
• Employment, community and personal relationships

With an “own recognizance” release, you are not required to pay any bail money to the court. Instead, you’re released under specified conditions, such as not leaving the local area until your case is closed.

When deciding whether to grant “own recognizance” release, a judge will take into consideration the same factors as they do when setting the amount of bail.

A DUI charge is serious, as a conviction can turn your life upside down. From a large fine to a license suspension, the penalties are every bit as severe as you can imagine.

The right DUI defense strategy can help prevent a conviction, thus allowing you to put your case in the past without any additional impact on your life.

Visit our website and read our blog for more information on what to do after a DUI arrest.