If you’re out on parole, are on bond or have a history of violating the law, it’s important not to break any laws again. If you do, you could find yourself back under arrest and facing much more serious charges. If you’re convicted, you could also face harsher penalties because the courts are less lenient with repeat offenders.
Take for example this case: A 21-year-old man is facing charges for driving under the influence and reckless driving after a witness called to report a rollover crash that happened on Route 24 around 10:41 p.m. near the Longplex Family & Sports Center. The news reported that this was not the driver’s first drunk driving offense, so the young man may face significant penalties as a result, including the possibility of losing his license for up to two years.
Protect yourself if you face a charge for a repeat offense
Getting into trouble with the law more than once is frustrating for anyone. Any time you’re stopped by the police, you need to know your rights, especially if you previously had a history of reckless driving or DUIs. Understand that you don’t have to speak with the police other than to provide them with your identifying information. You can ask for your attorney and wait until the attorney can advise you before giving any kind of statement.
If you have a warrant out for your arrest or have a history of prior convictions on your record, your drunk driving charge is particularly serious. Make sure that you have an experienced advocate on your side from the very start.