(Mark Berry contacted me with some additional perspectives on how best to get through this process. If you'd like to contribute to this blog, please feel free to contact me! - Tom)

Getting a DUI charge (OMVI, OVI, DWI or related offense) today has probably triggered a range of troubling emotions including anger and self-criticism. These are normal responses. This blog addresses your emotional response by guiding you to create meaningful actions ahead. You need to take action if you or your loved one is charged with a DUI offense.

Talk To Emotional Support Specialists to Understand Your Responses

We suggest finding a mental health professional when you experience emotional challenges that are hard to manage. Your journey following a DUI can be easier with preventive mental health care and early self-care approaches. Different people experience the aftermath of a DUI differently. People who struggle more feel different about their experience based on how bad the event was. These factors might include:

• The arresting officer’s demeanor
• Whether or not there was an accident and/or injuries
• How much public or professional exposure the DUI charge is causing you
• Whether you spent some time in jail Just by taking the time to analyze your current position you will build stability for accepting future obstacles.

Here are some strategies you can try to help manage stress and anxious feelings…

Search DUI state laws at the location of the incident first to understand your rights. You will face distinct methods from both the prosecutor and judge during the proceedings.

Consider Hiring an Attorney

Our recommendation is to hire a respected attorney even when you plan to plead guilty. You can choose to have your personal lawyer represent you. The system will provide you with a public defender when you do not have your own lawyer to represent you. Lawyers exist to represent their clients properly instead of attempting charge reduction. They represent your rights to protect you during legal proceedings. During your crucial case period you must select a professional DUI defense attorney instead of seeking budget options from generalists or family connections.

Make Time for Self-Reflection

The stress of this situation can cause us to make bad rapid choices. Take a moment to process what you learn from your attorney chats and internet research before making important decisions.

Take A Proactive Stance Toward Your Offense

Let your attorney be your defense in court. Most defense lawyers will arrange for you to undergo substance abuse testing soon after your arrest before your initial court appearance. Getting tested for alcohol and drug use problems can help your legal situation. Judges tend to treat you as a responsible member of society with minimal risk when your alcohol and drug assessment reveals no disorder.

Sum Up!

Take a moment to evaluate driving your vehicle while your blood contains alcohol. Trust me, it blows to not be able to drive. You will get through it. When situations get hard remember you can overcome any difficulties.

People with new DUI charges should recognize their mistake and start developing better habits. As parents we only have one option to consider in these cases. Our best action now is to concentrate on tomorrow rather than regretting yesterday.

Tags: dui, Guest post, Mental health, Penalties, offender, recovery, Sadness