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After an Arrest

What to Do When Facing a DUI Conviction

When you have been arrested for drinking and driving or driving under the influence of drugs in Panama City, you have only ten days to act to protect your driver's license from being suspended. Under Florida's ten-day rule, your license will be subject to an automatic administrative revocation unless you take action now. You can lose your driving privilege for anywhere from 180 days to a full year, causing serious disruption in your personal life and potentially making it difficult or impossible for you to commute to work. Perhaps the most effective step you can take towards defending your license is to contact Shepard Law, P.A. for dedicated legal representation.

Defending Your Driver's License in Panama City

An attorney from the firm can represent you at your DMV hearing, challenging the evidence in the case and seeking to protect your driver's license from the automatic suspension. This is separate from the criminal trial, but is based on much of the same evidence such as the police officer's testimony and the results of chemical tests of your breath or blood. It is, however, less formal than a criminal trial, and the police officer may not even appear to testify against you. Your attorney will be able to cross-examine witnesses and the evidence against you, and to introduce evidence in your favor, in an effort to defeat the charges and preserve your driving privileges.

Many people simply fail to realize that they have the right to contest a driver's license suspension, thinking that there is no way to fight the evidence in the case and giving up any hope of avoiding the negative consequences. The fact is that in a DUI-as in any other case-you are legally presumed innocent until proven guilty. Unless the prosecutor can prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime of driving under the influence, you cannot legally be convicted on the charges. By hiring an attorney to represent you, you will have a dedicated advocate whose goal will be to challenge the evidence and seek to clear your name of the charges.

Contact the Firm Today for Help!

Don't hesitate to retain legal representation as early as possible after your arrest, to advise you of your options and begin working on a strategy for defending you. The actions you take at the outset of the case will largely determine the final outcome of the situation, and you cannot afford to make any mistakes which could cost you in the long term. Your attorney will represent you with law enforcement officials and in court, helping you decide whether to accept a plea bargain or to take the case to trial.

This may be a highly stressful situation for you and your family, but it is not one that you have to face alone-let the team at Shepard Law guide you through the process and help you find your way back out of the criminal justice system.

Trusted DWI Defense Services in Austin: Safeguarding Your Rights

Living in Austin, Texas, you know how vital it is to maintain your driving privileges. Whether you're commuting to work downtown, heading to the University of Texas, or enjoying a weekend at Zilker Park, losing your driver's license can significantly disrupt your daily life. At Shepard Law, we understand the unique challenges faced by Austin residents when dealing with DWI charges and are here to help you navigate this difficult time.

When you are arrested for a DWI in Austin, you not only face criminal charges but also the possibility of an automatic driver's license suspension. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) handles these administrative license revocation (ALR) hearings, which are separate from your criminal trial. Our attorneys are well-versed in the procedures and can represent you at your ALR hearing, challenging the evidence and working to protect your driving privileges.

Many Austin residents are unaware that they have the right to contest a driver's license suspension. They often feel overwhelmed by the evidence against them, such as the police officer's testimony and the results of chemical tests. However, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty, and our team is dedicated to challenging the evidence and seeking to clear your name.

We are familiar with the local courts, including the Travis County Courthouse, and have experience working with local law enforcement agencies. This local knowledge allows us to provide a robust defense tailored to the specific circumstances of your case. Whether you were stopped on I-35, near Lady Bird Lake, or in any other part of Austin, we are here to help you through every step of the process.

Frequently Asked Questions About DWI Defense in Austin

Why is it crucial to hire an attorney immediately after a DUI arrest?

Securing legal representation immediately after a DUI arrest is crucial because the initial steps you take can significantly impact the case's outcome. An attorney can provide valuable advice, help you understand your options, and develop a defense strategy. Mistakes made early on can have long-term consequences, so having an attorney to navigate the legal system and represent you in interactions with law enforcement and in court is essential.

Am I automatically guilty if charged with a DUI?

No, being charged with a DUI does not automatically make you guilty. In the United States, you are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This means that the prosecutor must establish your guilt with strong evidence before a conviction can be made. Hiring an attorney can help you challenge the evidence and strive to clear your name of the charges.

What Sets Shepard Law Apart?

  • Available 24/7
  • Former Prosecutor
  • Free Initial Consultation
  • Over Two Decades of Experience
  • Superb Rating on Avvo
  • Handled 5000+ Cases
  • “Rusty Shepard is the best. So compassionate and so effective. I highly recommend him. Terrific results both times he represented my daughter.

    - S. A.
  • “Mr. Shepard made sure that the judge saw me as a person and not just a young person. Megan and Mr. Shepard even spent extra time with me and attended to every single question that I had. 10**********!”

    - Former Client
  • “Their knowledge, patience and thorough explanations of the events to come, helped me to feel at ease throughout the entire process. Don't hesitate to call or walk-in to their office!! The staff is welcoming and you will feel right at home.”

    - S. H.
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