Steps to Take After Being Charged with an Impaired Driving Offense in Calgary
If you're charged with impaired driving in Calgary, when your ability to operate a vehicle is compromised by substances like alcohol or drugs, it's crucial to understand the severe repercussions you could face. Should you be stopped by law enforcement and suspected of impairment, a drug recognition expert will confirm if you are impaired and determine the type of substance affecting you. The consequences of being found impaired can have a significant impact on your life, including legal complications and heightened stress.
Understanding the full range of potential penalties for an impaired driving charge is essential. This knowledge enables you to make an informed decision about your next steps, including consulting an impaired driving lawyer in Calgary.
What to Do If You’ve Been Charged with Impaired Driving
If you're facing impaired driving charges, it's crucial to understand your legal rights and options. Fast action can lead to a better outcome. Consult an impaired driving lawyer in Calgary to safeguard your rights and lessen the consequences on your life.
Additionally, follow these steps:
Hire an Impaired Driving Lawyer
If you've been charged with impaired driving, your initial action should be to contact a seasoned Calgary impaired driving lawyer known for successfully defending such cases. Your lawyer will offer essential legal counsel and help you navigate the proceedings.
Remember, it's your right to consult a lawyer before discussing anything with the police or crown prosecutors. You can rely on your lawyer to uphold and defend your rights and interests.
Understand the Charges
An experienced impaired driving lawyer will clarify the specifics of the allegations, the potential consequences, and your available legal choices. With your lawyer's guidance, discuss these options to make an informed decision that best serves you and your family. Consider your options carefully and ask questions.
Attend Your Court Appearances
When charged with criminal impaired driving, you'll be given documents detailing your specific charges. These documents will also provide dates for procedures like fingerprinting, photographs and your court appearance.
At the court session, you'll state your plea of guilty or not guilty. Failing to attend any of these mandatory events can result in an additional charge of “failing to appear,” which can prompt the court to issue an arrest warrant for you.
Gather Evidence
Your lawyer will help gather the evidence to challenge the charges against you. Evidence can include – but is not limited to – eyewitness statements or accounts, breathalyzer test results, video footage if available and any other information that supports your case.
Prepare a Defence Strategy
Your lawyer will collaborate with you to craft a robust defence strategy tailored to the nuances of your case. This strategy might include contesting evidence, questioning witnesses, evaluating the legal processes adhered to or addressing potential violations of your rights.
Consider Plea Options
Your lawyer will explore and discuss possible plea alternatives with you, which may include negotiating a lighter sentence or considering different sentencing pathways. These can encompass mandatory alcohol education courses, assessments or community service.
While facing these charges can be daunting, with possible hefty fines or incarceration, it's essential to remain calm. Place your trust in your lawyer and maintain hope.
Your Impaired Driving Lawyers in Calgary
Have you been charged with impaired driving? Contact the expert Calgary criminal defence lawyers at Muenz Criminal Law. With over 30 years of criminal defence experience, our knowledgeable team will protect your rights and guide you through the complexities of the legal system.
Call 403-543-6666 or complete our contact form to request a free consultation.