When dealing with a DUI, it can be difficult to remember every single detail. No matter your level of intoxication, going through the motions of a DUI arrest can be quite disorienting. For this reason, it can be incredibly beneficial to record all of the details surrounding the time leading up to, during, and after your stop. By taking the time to record details, you might help your attorney to better fight your case. So, we’re going to help you decide what’s important, and what to write down.
Record Details: What’s Important to My DUI Case?
Where were you and at what time did you have your last drink?
A smart thing to do on your end, is to record when and where you had your last drink. If you have receipts, hold onto them. Try and be specific in your details, and make note of them. Include anything you might have eaten or drank before hitting the road as well. Having a record of your intake can help to show that you are coherent, and also that there were other things besides alcohol going into your system.
Describe your driving just before the officer stopped you
Make a note of your driving, and be honest about it. Were you swerving? Running off of the road? Were you distracted? Did you drop something and lean over to get it? Keep a record of how fast you were going, what road, your driving, and how long it took for you to pull over after you saw blue lights. Every detail can be helpful to your lawyer.
What was the reason for pulling you over?
When the officer stops you, and walks to your window, the first thing they should do is to tell you why you were stopped. Did you have a broken tail light? Did you swerve? Speeding? Recount the conversations, actions, and so forth. The more details, will undeniably be better.
Appearance and Conduct
Another thing to make note of is your appearance and the way you act. If you felt nervous, scared, or confused, be sure to include that. You’ll want to make note of emotions, how you look at the time of your stop, and the way that you spoke with the officer. While it might feel embarrassing to relay to your attorney, they’re on your side here. Any information you share with them is privileged, private, and only helps them to further establish your case.
The importance of specifics
The details can be quite telling when it comes down to it. Writing down those actions, details, and conversations can give your attorney a lot to go on. Not to mention, as time goes by, it can be easy for details to fail you or become muddy. When you record details surrounding the event, you have a reliable source to revisit when you’re in need of clarification.