A regular traffic stop can quickly turn into an arrest if you’re driving under the influence of alcohol. When this occurs, you’re bound to experience serious anxiety. Will you be subject to jail time? Will you lose your license? How much will you be expected to pay in fines?

The first step to answering these and other questions is finding a knowledgeable attorney to work on your case. My name is Angela Arellanes, and my firm Angela Arellanes Law is committed to helping clients in Albuquerque facing serious criminal charges.

Along with developing a legal strategy for your case, I can also help you understand important principles regarding the law. For example, for a DUI arrest to be considered legitimate, the police must be able to show probable cause.

What Constitutes Probable Cause?

Probable cause is evidence that would lead a reasonable person to assume a driver was operating a vehicle under the influence. It can sometimes result from a driver’s actions after being pulled over for an unrelated traffic violation. Drivers who seem confused, speak with slurred speech, or have bloodshot, watery eyes may be considered inebriated by law enforcement.

Driving behaviors can also serve as probable cause. Drunk drivers often have a hard time staying within their lanes. They may also drive too slowly for the speed limit or exhibit difficult accelerating and braking. These and other actions often lead to traffic stops, during which breathalyzer testing or participation in a field sobriety test will be used to verify impairment.

Contacting my firm immediately after your arrest allows me to develop a legal strategy as soon as possible. Call 505.247.2417 to schedule your consultation or contact me for more information.

What Can I Do If Arrested for DUI?

Being arrested is always stressful, no matter the circumstances. However, there are steps you can take to make the situation less harrowing for yourself:

• Pull over immediately when signaled. Fleeing from the police, even if you feel as though you were doing nothing wrong, only increases penalties.

• Be polite and courteous. Being rude or combative will not do you any favors. Keep in mind you’re required to provide your name, driver’s license, registration, and insurance information.

• Comply with officer’s demands. Implied consent laws stipulate you’re required to undergo testing when asked by law enforcement. Failure to do so will result in an immediate revocation of your license, regardless of your blood alcohol content (BAC). 

• Don’t resist arrest. While it’s frustrating when you feel like your rights are being violated, resisting arrest will only make the situation worse. Don’t answer questions without a lawyer present, make note of what’s happening, and get the names and badge numbers of the officers involved so you can make a formal complaint later.

How Can an Attorney Help?

Depending on the details of your case, I may be able to get the charges against you reduced or even dismissed. And if there were issues with how your arrest or questions about probably cause, I’ll make sure they’re appropriately addressed.

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