Getting a DUI can be terrifying, especially with more and more states extracting major consequences on even the first offense. As you prepare for your court dates and trial, you will likely be provided with a lot of direction on what you need to be doing. It's also important to realize there are some things you should not be doing. The following will lay these out for you:

#1: Do not drink or use drugs

Not doing any further driving under the influence is a no-brainer, but you also want to abstain from using even if your only plan is to sit at home and watch the game. In some cases, you may be required to submit to alcohol and drug testing regularly after a charge, and you don't want the results to skew the court's view of you. People are also more likely to make poor decisions when under the influence, and when you are already fighting a DUI, you don't want any more poor decisions on your record.

#2: Avoid alcohol-soaked events

It's a good idea to avoid parties and events that you know are going to be heavily fueled by alcohol and drugs, even if you don't plan to partake. Simply being with someone else that commits a crime under the influence can reflect on your case, especially if you are arrested along with them. This doesn't mean you need to skip a friend's wedding because alcohol is being served, but you probably want to think twice about going to a Friday night keg party.

#3: Stay off social media

Social media is not the place to discuss your DUI or upcoming court appointments. Anything you say online can be used against you in court. The best practice is to delete or close down your accounts, at least temporarily. Second-best practice is to tighten up your privacy and be careful about what you post. Not only do you want to avoid talking about your DUI, you also don't want to post pictures of any activities that feature alcohol, drugs, or criminal behavior.

#4: Stay in touch with your attorney

Many DUI offenders hire an attorney and then figure that most of their work is done. Big mistake. Your attorney wants to help you, but you have to participate. Make sure you make every meeting scheduled and be prepared. For example, work on a list of questions or concerns leading up to each meeting so you can get the most out of them. Also, follow your attorney's advice. For example, if they advise that you enter a treatment program, then do so. The local circuit may have a history of leniency with first offenders that enter treatment. Your attorney won't give advice unless they think it will help your case.

For more help, contact a DWI attorney in your area.

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