- Stay Calm and Cooperate
At the Scene:
- Pull over safely and remain in the vehicle unless instructed otherwise.
- Be respectful and cooperative with the officer.
- You have the right to remain silent—don’t argue or admit guilt.
- You may be asked to take a field sobriety test or breathalyzer—refusing can lead to automatic license suspension in many states (Implied Consent Law).
Important Note:
- Everything you say and do can be used in court. Stay calm and polite.
- Understand What Happens Next
After Arrest:
- You will likely be taken to jail for processing.
- You may be held overnight or until you can post bail.
- A court date will be scheduled for your arraignment.
- Your driver’s license may be suspended immediately or shortly after.
- Hire a Qualified Attorney
- Seek a criminal defense attorney with DWI experience.
- If you can’t afford an attorney, you may be assigned a public defender.
- Your attorney will help you understand charges, penalties, and your legal options.
- Attend All Court Dates
- Missing court can result in additional charges or a warrant.
- Your first court appearance (arraignment) is where you enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
- You may qualify for deferred adjudication or diversion programs that focus on rehabilitation.
- Understand the Consequences
Depending on your record and location, a DWI can result in:
- Fines and court fees
- Jail or probation
- Driver’s license suspension
- Installation of an ignition interlock device
- Mandatory alcohol or drug education classes
- Community service
- Increased insurance rates
A DWI stays on your record and may impact employment, housing, and custody cases.
- Take Responsibility and Start Recovery (if needed)
If substance use contributed to your DWI:
- Get an assessment by a licensed addiction counselor.
- Consider outpatient treatment, counseling, or support groups (AA, SMART Recovery, etc.).
- Engage in harm reduction or abstinence-based recovery.
- Begin documenting your efforts and progress.
This can show the court you are taking proactive steps, and it supports long-term change.
- Rebuild and Move Forward
- Complete your legal requirements fully and on time.
- Work with your attorney to explore record sealing or expungement (if eligible).
- Consider defensive driving or DWI intervention classes for growth.
- Build a new support system that encourages accountability and healing.
- How NexStep Can Support You
We understand that one mistake doesn’t define you. NexStep offers:
- Court-approved DWI education and intervention programs
- Substance use assessments and counseling
- Peer support and relapse prevention
- Case management and referrals to legal and reentry resources
- Community service opportunities and documentation
We walk with you through every step—legal, emotional, and personal.
Final Words
A DWI can feel like the end, but it can also be the beginning of real change. Whether you're facing your first offense or trying to rebuild after repeated mistakes, NexStep is here to help you take the next step toward accountability, growth, and freedom.
You are not alone. Your next chapter starts now.