7 Things a DUI Lawyer Will Do After Your Arrest

Getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) is a frightening and stressful experience. You’re likely facing license suspension, heavy fines, and possibly jail time. But one of the smartest moves you can make after your arrest is hiring a skilled attorney. So, what does a DUI lawyer do after an arrest? 

From reviewing field sobriety tests to preparing for trial, a DUI lawyer’s role is comprehensive. Whether you’re looking for a Dui lawyer in Athens GA, it’s important to understand the steps a qualified legal expert will take on your behalf. 

Here are the 7 critical things a DUI lawyer will do after your arrest to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

1. Immediate Case Evaluation & Arrest Review

The first thing your DUI attorney will do is sit down with you to go over every detail of your arrest. This includes reviewing: 

• Police reports 

• Body cam or dash cam footage 

• Arrest timelines 

• Breathalyzer and blood test results 

• Miranda rights compliance 

An experienced Atlanta drunk driving attorney knows how to identify legal mistakes early. If your rights were violated or the police lacked probable cause, your lawyer could file a motion to suppress evidence or even get the case dismissed. 

This initial review forms the foundation for your DUI defense steps, and it must be done quickly before important evidence disappears.

2. Handling the Administrative License Suspension Hearing

One of the most immediate consequences of a DUI arrest is the administrative suspension of your driver’s license. This is a civil matter and happens separately from any criminal proceedings. Your DUI lawyer will request and represent you at an administrative hearing, usually within 10–30 days of arrest, depending on your jurisdiction. 

Key objectives at this hearing: 

• Challenge whether the officer had legal grounds to stop or arrest you 

• Dispute refusal or failure of chemical tests 

• Fight to reinstate or retain limited driving privileges 

Whether you’re working with a Dui lawyer in Athens GA skipping this hearing can mean losing your license automatically.

3. Analyzing the Field Sobriety & Chemical Tests

Next, your lawyer will dive into the results and procedures surrounding your field sobriety tests and any breath, blood, or urine samples taken. These tests are not foolproof. 

Your attorney will assess: 

• Whether the officer was certified to conduct field tests 

• If the breathalyzer machine was calibrated correctly 

• The chain of custody for blood samples 

• Any external factors (weather, medical conditions) that could have impacted performance 

This field sobriety review often reveals weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. A well-connected attorney may also bring in a forensic expert to dispute the validity of the results, especially if the BAC level is borderline.

4. Filing Pre-Trial Motions to Exclude Evidence

An aggressive DUI defense relies heavily on pre-trial motions. These legal filings aim to exclude damaging evidence, dismiss improper charges, or challenge unconstitutional procedures. 

Common pre-trial motions DUI lawyers file: 

• Motion to suppress chemical test results 

• Motion to dismiss the case due to lack of probable cause 

• Motion to exclude illegally obtained statements 

• Motion to challenge the admissibility of the field sobriety tests 

The drunk driving lawyer may use these motions to weaken the prosecution’s case long before the trial begins.

5. Negotiating a DUI Plea Deal or Diversion Program

If evidence against you is strong, but your record is clean, your lawyer might pursue a DUI plea negotiation. This could reduce your DUI to a reckless driving charge or get you into a diversion program that avoids a criminal conviction. 

Plea deal considerations include: 

• Reduced penalties (shorter license suspension, fewer fines) 

• No jail time in exchange for probation 

• Participation in alcohol education or treatment 

• Avoiding a permanent criminal record 

A DUI attorney familiar with local courts will know which judges or prosecutors are open to these agreements, maximizing your chances of a favorable deal.

6. Trial Preparation: Building Your DUI Defense

Not all DUI cases end in a plea. If your lawyer determines that the evidence is weak—or if you simply want your day in court, they’ll begin DUI trial prep. 

This involves: 

• Interviewing witnesses 

• Consulting expert toxicologists 

• Reconstructing the traffic stop 

• Preparing cross-examinations for arresting officers 

• Developing a strong opening and closing argument 

Good trial prep can mean the difference between conviction and acquittal. An experienced dui attorney understands local jury pools, court procedures, and how to craft a compelling defense.

7. Post-Trial Support & Record Management

Even after the trial is over, your lawyer’s job isn’t done. If you’re convicted, they can help with: 

• Filing appeals or motions for a new trial 

• Arranging alternative sentencing like community service or house arrest 

• Expunging eligible charges from your record later 

• Monitoring compliance with court-ordered programs 

This post-trial support is key to moving on with your life. Whether you work with an Athens dui lawyer, a good attorney ensures you have a plan moving forward. 

Why Hiring the Right DUI Lawyer Matters 

Not all attorneys are the same. Some dabble in DUI cases—others make it their focus. If you’re in Georgia, consider attorneys who specialize in DUI law, particularly if they are: 

• Board-certified in DUI defense 

• Familiar with Georgia’s implied consent laws 

• Known by local judges and prosecutors 

Local expertise, courtroom experience, and a proven track record are the keys to protecting your freedom and future. 

Conclusion 

A DUI arrest is serious—but it’s not the end of the road. Now that you know what a DUI lawyer does after arrest, it’s clear how crucial fast legal action is. From challenging sobriety tests to negotiating plea deals, a skilled attorney can change the outcome of your case. 

Need help now? Contact a trusted Athens GA DUI attorney or an experienced DUI lawyer in Atlanta to protect your rights and start building your defense today.