Anyone can make a silly mistake – even a smart college student. Mistakes happen. If you have been charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Driving Under the Influence (DUI), it’s important that you know what to expect and how best to defend yourself. An experienced New Jersey DWI attorney can help you do just that. A DWI charge can be menacing, but you need to defend your rights and your future; there are six important tips that can help you move forward.

The Big Six

Carefully consider each of the following DWI Factors and conscientiously apply them to your own charge:

1. Getting pulled over

If you’re a college student who’s been pulled over on a suspected DWI, you’re rightfully scared. If the officer can smell alcohol on you or can discern that your eyes are bloodshot and watery (or any other probable indication of drinking), you will be legally processed for DWI. Retain a skilled attorney who’s familiar with your court and who can help guide you successfully through the DWI process.

2. Questioning

If an officer stops you on a suspected DWI-charge, that officer will question you to ascertain whether it’s probable that you’ve been drinking or are otherwise impaired. The officer will consider whether your answers make sense and whether you exhibit any signs that you’ve been drinking. It’s always in your best interest to answer a police officer truthfully, but there is no reason to offer up any information that is not explicitly requested. Keep your answers short and sweet.

3. Taking a breathalyzer test

In New Jersey you do not have a right to refuse to take this test.  IF asked to blow into a machine, provide a sample.  IF they there was no probable cause to ask you to blow into the machine, or it was not working properly, this can later be challenged in Court.  A refusal will take away all of these possible defenses, and you will have penalties worse then if you were convicted of a DUI.

4. Paying for legal

Yes, a DWI charge is going to cost you. But a reasonable attorney will recognize your plight as a poor college student and will try to meet you halfway – with reduced fees and/or a payment plan. You deserve a strong defense.

5. Notifying your college

In New Jersey, a DWI charge is not a criminal charge, and a conviction is highly unlikely to get you expelled from your school. On the other hand, a DWI conviction may wreak havoc on your school housing and your all-important financial-aid package. Don’t let a DWI derail your education; seek skilled legal counsel.

6. Underage Drinking

If you’re charged with a drinking offense before you turn 21, you might face different consequences. Many colleges have rules and regulations in place that address such a charge. Municipal court will also play a role in your charge, and you’ll need to defend your case at both levels.

If You’re a College Student Who’s Been Charged with a DWI, Call 973-686-9787 Today

If you’re a college student facing a DWI charge, you very well may be panicking, but a skilled DWI attorney can help you move past this charge as painlessly as possible. The Law Offices of David W. Polsky understand your dilemma and will fight for your rights. David is a skilled New Jersey lawyer with experience in defending college students just like you. We’re here to help, so give us a call at 973-686-9787 or contact us online.